Issue 154 of COAST Community News by Central Coast Newspapers

MARCH 23, 2017

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ISSUE 154

Torrents of water containing toxic leachate are flowing into water catchment area he recent heavy rains have renewed community fears about the safety of the Mangrove Mountain landfill.

Mountain Districts Association (MDA) spokesperson, Ms Marilyn Steiner, said: “The piecemeal way that the site has been constructed, with little regard for Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Guidelines on best practice, means that every time there is prolonged and heavy rain, the waste pile, with its steep sides, becomes saturated, and sheds torrents of water containing toxic leachate. “This leachate-laden water runs into the settlement ponds and ground water aquifer and also directly into the gully which leads to Stringybark Creek, Ourimbah Creek and the Central Coast’s water supply. “Once the settlement ponds are full, there is no place for the untreated water to go except offsite, which the EPA says is not permitted,” she said. “This prohibition does not appear, from many years of photos obtained through GIPA searches, to have been enforced. “MDA identified that blatant pumping out of settlement ponds plus the leachate pond off-site has been taking place under the nose of the EPA for years, and it has taken persistent questioning to engage the EPA in making its own enquiries and enforcing its own regulations,” she said. The substantial contaminant plume observed and photographed by residents in Ourimbah Creek in late July 2015 was traced back by Ken Brookes, Catchment Management Officer of the former Wyong Council, to Hallards Creek and thence uphill

Cell W in Feb 2016, holding an estimated 20 million litres of contaminated run-off

to the north-east corner of the landfill, Ms Steiner said. “The previous heavy rains in April 2015 may have created a similar crisis in rainwater management to that currently being experienced. “The usual run-off point is the low SE corner of the landfill where there is a spillway and gully running into Stringybark Creek and a pond on the golf course. “It is the obvious place for water monitoring. “In this instance, it is alleged that for several weeks, possibly months, judging by the depth of the gully downhill and the extent of dead vegetation, run-off was pumped instead uphill to this North-East corner. “It is alleged the contaminated

water was then directed under the fence into the Jilliby Conservation area, which is not accessible to the general public and where detection was unlikely. “Despite no charges ever being laid by the EPA, the scandal forced the operator to find other ways of dealing with excess run-off, and an area called Cell W became the temporary repository. “Cell W is the next area scheduled to receive waste if and when the site is re-opened, and is on the southern edge of the current waste mound. “It was excavated in 2012. “In January 2016, MDA observers estimated that Cell W contained 20 million litres of contaminated water. “So what to do with all this

Spillway at SE corner of landfill, now fenced off and monitored by Operator with security cameras.

contaminated water? “The recent long dry spel,l plus use of evaporators and sprinklers, succeeded in emptying Cell W by February, ready, the operator no doubt hoped, for impervious lining prior to receiving waste.

“However, we are back in the same situation because in Australia it does actually rain for extended periods on occasion, and Cell W is yet again filling rapidly, despite run-off now being directed into settlement ponds.

“And what now happens when these are full, apart from illegal, unrestrained overflow into the catchment? “It’s business as usual. “The site is unlikely to ever be able to contain rainfall run-off, so this is a vicious cycle. “MDA has a major concern that the EPA is still not monitoring this site adequately. “It has officially lodged a complaint, but it should not be the community’s job to police the landfill. “In fact, there is no public oversight reasonably possible, because the operator owns the only viewing point, the golf course, and has forbidden the MDA access to both the landfill and the golf course, with multiple video surveillance cameras policing the perimeter. “How does this come about, that a major landfill poised above a water catchment can operate without any public monitoring? “If Buttonderry, Woy Woy and Kincumber landfills are Councilowned and operated under strict guidelines, why is this landfill allowed to operate privately under the radar, especially with its history of appalling environmental management?” In Central Coast Council’s recent Financial Report, note 23, page 79, it states that the assets, rights and liabilities of the former Gosford City Council have been transferred to Central Coast Council. “So step up Central Coast Council and do the right thing by implementing new proceedings in the Land and Environment Court with the aim of closing and remediating this huge blight on Council’s record,” Ms Steiner said. Media release, Mar 20, 2017 Marilyn Steiner, Mountain Districts Association

Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net Mobile Website: www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

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he critically-acclaimed musical, Kinky Boots, is coming to Sydney’s Capital Theatre and Coast Community News has tickets to give away to a preview performance on Saturday, April 15.

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Kinky Boots has won every major international Best Musical award, features Tony and Grammy winning songs by pop icon Cyndi Lauper. The show is based on the true story of a young man who revamps the failing family shoe factory after finding unexpected inspiration in the form of fabulous drag queen Lola. Coast Community News has a double pass to give away to the

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Sydney preview performance of Kinky Boots. The same prize will be offered in Coast Community News’ sister publications Wyong Regional Chronicle and the Peninsula News. Each of the three double pass winners will then go into a special draw to also win a once-in-alifetime meet and greet with the Kinky Boots cast, as well as vouchers for programs and drinks at the theatre.

To be in the draw to win the double pass write your name, address and daytime phone number on the back of an envelope and mail it to Coast Community News Kinky Boots Competition, PO Box 1056, Gosford, NSW, 2250. Entries close 5:00pm on Tuesday, April 4. The winner of the Coast Community News Reptile Park competition was Christine Jack of South Tacoma

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Issue 110 February 14, 2017

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Confidential airport feasibility study Berejiklian refuses to recommended sale confirm September council election of the land ew South Wales Premier, Ms Gladys Berejiklian, during her visit to the region for a Community Cabinet meeting, was not prepared to confirm that the Central Coast would have a local election in September.

Mr Laurie Eyes attended the Wyong chamber to access the airport feasibility study

he former Wyong Council and the current Central Coast Council have continued to spend rate payer money on the expansion of the airport at Warnervale when a 2013 feasibility study recommended the sale of the land.

The study, which has been kept conﬁdential by both Wyong and Central Coast Councils since 2013, concluded that the sale of the airport land at Warnervale could fetch around $7.7 million, depending on market conditions. It also argued that the sale could result in an

ongoing revenue stream back to Council through land rates. The 2013 feasibility study concluded that an upgrade of the Warnervale airport was not viable, as the costs were considered “prohibitive” and signiﬁcant effort would be required by Council to attract aviation-related businesses to the site. Since abandoning its plans to develop an airport at Kiar Ridge, the Wyong Council and the Central Coast Council, have pursued an expansion of the airport into a general aviation hub. Since 2013, the former and current Council have spent at least $7

million at Warnervale airport, including on a runway upgrade without Ministerial permission, as is required by specific legislation, and on land acquisitions. At the same time, it has kept confidential the feasibility study which clearly showed the best course of action available to the Council was to sell the airport land and turn it into rateable industrial lots. Those lots would also generate employment as per the intent of its classification as a State Significant Site and the objectives of creating the Wyong Employment Zone (WEZ). Continued P3

Wyong Regional Chronicle asked Ms Berejiklian to conﬁrm that the ﬁrst election for the Central Coast Council would occur in September. The Premier said: “We know, the feedback I have been getting is, that people are so happy with the current arrangements up here on the Coast. “The merger has gone extremely well, that is the feedback I have been getting, not just from the local members, but also from the community, and people want to ensure that continues,” she said. When asked if she would rule out an extension of the current Administration period for the Central Coast Council, Ms Berejiklian said: “No, I’m not ruling anything in or out. “All that I am saying is the feedback we

Premier Gladys Berejiklian shakes hands with the Central Coast Photo: Noel Fisher

have had is that it is an extremely positive experience and we are seeing a difference on the ground. “We are seeing less time taken to approve developments. “You’ve got to remember this is about the local community, it is not about how governments work, and what I have seen is really positive.” Ms Berejiklian has been under pressure to reconsider the

Government’s position on Council mergers since taking over as NSW Premier from Mr Mike Baird. For example, the State Member for Wyong, Mr David Harris, who is also Shadow Minister for the Central Coast, has called for a plebiscite to give the Central Coast community the opportunity to decide whether or not it retains the two old councils or continues with a single Central Coast Council.

Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

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Continued P4

e Frkeeone!

Issue 111 February 28, 2017

Edition 414

20 February 2017

Kathy Smith resigns due to fight with cancer Member for Gosford Ms Kathy Smith has announced her resignation from NSW Parliament, because of her ongoing fight with cancer. The resignation was confirmed in a media statement from the NSW Opposition Leader Mr Luke Foley. He said that, against the odds, she won Gosford for Labor in 2015. Ms Smith was diagnosed with cancer in 2016 and doctors were confident at the time that she would overcome the disease that first struck her in 1996. Unfortunately the cancer had more recently metastasised and required further treatment. “There is no higher honour than to represent your community in Parliament and that is why it is with great sadness that I announce my decision to resign as your Member for Gosford,” Ms Smith said. “When I was diagnosed with cancer last year, my doctors were positive that with treatment I would win my second battle with this disease,” she said. “Unfortunately, the cancer has metastasised and will now require further treatment. “This was not the result any of us was hoping for. “It was my first battle with this disease that led me to become a cancer advocate, then Chair of Cancer Voices NSW and ultimately be given the privilege of representing my community in the NSW Parliament.

Ms Kathy Smith (front left) campaigning to keep the Woy Woy Motor Registry open in 2015

“I am proud of what we have achieved together on the Central Coast and I know that whoever comes next will continue the great work that I and the Foley Labor team have started. “I now look forward to spending more time with my family and continuing my treatment and recovery,” she said. Ms Smith thanked her staff, Ms Jane Letteri and Ms Amy Walsh, and her husband Peter whose dedication and support had made so much possible at this difﬁcult time. NSW Opposition leader Mr Luke Foley said: “I said when Kathy was diagnosed with cancer that she had all our heartfelt wishes for a speedy recovery. “Now with her resignation, we

are losing a remarkable, resilient and admirable woman, mother and colleague. “Her spirit and outlook will be missed around Parliament and important though her work here was, she has a much bigger battle ahead. “She has our entire sincere good wishes for that struggle. “Please give her your best thoughts, and prayers. “She and her family will get strength from that.” Mr Foley said Ms Smith’s achievements during her time as Member for Gosford included her exposure of the dangerous condition of the Hawkesbury River Rail Bridge which led to an inquiry by the Ofﬁce of Transport Safety Investigations and forced the

Government to make repairs. She led the fight against the closure of the Roads and Maritime Services office in Woy Woy by collecting a petition with more than 15,000 signatures and forcing a debate in the NSW Parliament. Ms Smith was credited with stopping the proposed increase in train fares which would have almost doubled fares for seniors by 2018 and would have cost daily commuters from Woy Woy to Tuggerah an extra $386 per year. “She fought to keep our public hospitals in public hands because patients should always come before profit; campaigned to fix the $12 million maintenance backlog at Gosford schools; and championed Brisbane Water oyster growers in their continuing efforts to re-

FEBRUARY 23, 2017

establish a viable local industry.” NSW Labor Senator Ms Deborah O’Neill, former Federal Member for Robertson, released a statement following Ms Smith’s announcement. “I am very sad that my friend and colleague Kathy Smith has had to resign as the Member for Gosford,” she said. “Kathy has been a strong voice for our community for many years. “I first met Kathy when she was the chairperson of Cancer Voices NSW and she was fighting to secure funding to build the Regional Cancer Centre at Gosford Hospital. “Thanks to Kathy’s persistent and passionate advocacy on behalf of locals, the Cancer Centre was built by Labor and thousands of locals now receive their cancer treatment right here on the Central Coast. “Kathy has continued to be a strong champion for our community and has fought against the Liberal Government’s attack on our local services, while battling her own illness in the last 12 months. “My thoughts are with Kathy, Peter, her children, grandchildren and her close friends at this very difficult time.” Media statement, 14 Feb 2017 Maegen Sykes, Office of Luke Foley Media statement, 14 Feb 2017 Rhys Zorro, Office of Deborah O’Neill BY-ELECTION NEWS - Pages 8 to 12

Council withdraws Bullion St carpark from sale Umina’s Bullion Street community car park has been withdrawn from sale by Central Coast Council. The Central Coast Council called for expressions of interest last September from parties wishing to acquire and develop the Bullion St land.

At the time, the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce argued that the sale and development of the car park would cause trafﬁc chaos and damage the thriving Umina town centre’s economy. The community backlash has resulted in Central Coast Council pulling its call for expressions of interest off the agenda.

The Chamber of Commerce reports that it has been assured the sale will not proceed and that there will be no future review of that decision without the participation of the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce. Interview, 15 Feb 2017 Matthew Wales, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce

The Bullion Street carpark has been withdrawn from sale

THIS ISSUE contains 53 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

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ISSUE 152

Billion Dollar

Waterfront Proposal markets,” he said. “We have the DA process and the public involvement process ready to go. “We have brought in the best architects and engineers Australia has to offer and this is about infrastructure; it is not a land grab. “We have done the 20-year plan. “As an international investment banker, I knew I had to secure the funding first and that is what I have done. “We have asked Council to give us the green light to start working through all the issues with the community and the environment. “We will take the commercial

billion-dollar project that aims to transform Gosford into the infrastructure investment gateway to Asia is waiting for a stamp of support from the Central Coast Council and NSW Government.

Mr Steve Duncan, Chairman of the G5 Global Vision Foundation and Bensville resident, said the proposal had been presented to the NSW Premier and Cabinet and that he was hopeful of an opportunity to meet with NSW Government representatives within the next couple of weeks. The proposal, which includes plans to redevelop the Gosford waterfront, has been on the desks of senior executives at Gosford and then Central Coast Council for almost 12 months. Mr Duncan said the proposal involved waterfront retail and public space, hotel and conference facilities; mixed use residential, commercial and retail, a highspeed intercity ferry service and infrastructure; and much more. The Central Coast Council has asked the NSW Government to assist it to formulate a strategy and roadmap for the State Significant, world-class project. In briefing notes presented to NSW Government Ministers at a recent Community Cabinet meeting, the Central Coast Council asked for “an audience in confidence with the State Government to present this opportunity and formulate a strategy and roadmap for the realisation of the project with a view to it being a State Significant project. “Central Coast Council has been working commercial in confidence with a proponent on a proposal that has the potential

Gosford waterfront

to be a game changer for the Gosford Waterfront,” which the briefing notes described as the “gateway location to the Central Coast. “The proposed Gosford waterfront development will work within the framework and principles set out by the intended Gosford Masterplan undertaken by the former Gosford Council, the Gosford Challenge, and Our City, Our Destiny Gosford Masterplan,’ the briefing document said. “This State Significant project will require partnership with the NSW State Government across a number of portfolios including planning, lands and RMS. “It has the potential to change the face of the Central Coast region, bring significant employment and economic stimulus to the region and contribute to the social wellbeing of the community,” the Cabinet briefing said.

Mr Duncan, who has had a long career as a merchant banker, said the project had been years in the planning and also involved a much bigger picture for Gosford and the region. The G5 Global Vision Foundation owns a company called Cellate, which is an Australian building technology that dates back to 1964, and established landmark projects in Australia until it relocated to the United Arab Emirates in 1990. Mr Duncan said he had successfully convinced the company to relocate its headquarters to Gosford as a stepping stone to expanding into Asia, and that Cellate was also negotiating the acquisition of a number of sites to develop as housing on the Coast. “The Central Coast Council has been very meticulous in dealing with our proposal because they

want it to happen,” he said. “I would say they have been a lot more cautious than they have been in the past because they have been disappointed before. “We have got to get Australia back working again and the Central Coast has been neglected because the same people have been in the same positions for the past 20 years and nothing has happened,” he said. “Our group specialises in infrastructure capital raising and we have serious projects on the go in India, South Africa and Asia. “We have been in the Middle East and have done very well out of it, but we are pulling out because the current situation is too dangerous. “We believe the growth region in the future will be Asia, locations like the Philippines and Indonesia, and Gosford is perfectly positioned to be our gateway into those

risk; we just want to be able to lease the [waterfront] land on commercial terms.” Mr Duncan said he believed the proposal would create 3,000 long-term jobs in Gosford. “We are working with the University of Newcastle to bring a Centre of Engineering Excellence to Gosford. “The Australian Maritime College will have a presence on the Central Coast,” he said. The Gosford waterfront was described in the Council document as one of the most picturesque landscapes on the eastern shores of Australia. Continued P3

Member for Gosford, Kathy Smith, resigns from Parliament ember for the State Seat of Gosford, Ms Kathy Smith, has announced her resignation from NSW Parliament, due to her ongoing struggle with cancer.

Against all the odds, she won Gosford for Labor in 2015. Ms Smith was diagnosed with cancer in 2016, and doctors were confident at the time that she would win her second battle with the disease that first struck her in 1996.

Unfortunately, the cancer has now metastasized and requires further treatment. “There is no higher honour than to represent your community in Parliament, and that is why it is with great sadness that I announce my decision to resign as your Member for Gosford,” Ms Smith said. “When I was diagnosed with cancer last year, my doctors were positive that, with treatment, I would win my second battle with this disease,” she said. Continued P4

Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net Mobile Website: www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

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Environmental Justice Australia calls on EPA to act on serious air pollution at Vales Point o m m u n i t y groups have initiated an EPA investigation into air pollution from the Vales Point power station at Mannering Point.

It has been alleged that coal trucks dumping thousands of tonnes of coal outdoors at the power station have created clouds of dangerous coal dust, just hundreds of metres from residential Mannering Point. “We reported the pollution event immediately and looked forward to a prompt investigation by the NSW EPA to stop and remedy this serious air pollution problem,” said Dr James Whelan, researcher with Environmental Justice Australia. According to Dr Whelan, particle pollution from coal dust causes serious health impacts including respiratory and cardiovascular illness, asthma and hospital admissions. Under their pollution licence, the Vales Point power station operators must carry out all their operations and activities in a manner that will minimise the emission of dust.

Tip trucks (right) depositing coal on one of the outdoor mounds at Vales Point power station dumped by very large, pollution,” the power station. When community minimise members investigated, said local resident Mr The Vales Point power and often uncovered, coal trucks were Mike Campbell, who station was sold by the dump trucks at Vales uncovered and no water witnessed the pollution. NSW Government in Point. was sprayed to control “There are mountains “It’s shocking to 2015 to two investors in dust. of coal as high as threesee Delta Electricity a $1 million deal. thousands The Vales Point dumping It is expected to close storey buildings within a very short distance power station reported of tonnes of coal by 2022. emitting 34 million outdoors in hot windy Dr Whelan said the to the residential areas exposing EPA had responded of Mannering Point and kilograms of 30 conditions, substances in the 2014- our community to toxic to the Environmental Blue Haven,” Dr Whelan 15 National Pollutant pollution,” Mr Campbell Justice Australia said. Inventory, including said. “We were stunned by pollution report by 66,000kg of coarse The pollution was stating Vales Point was what we saw at Vales particle pollution. reported to the Chief using water trucks to Point. Elsewhere in NSW, Regulator of NSW, control the dust but, “It looks like they coal is transported into Mr Mark Gifford, and he said, on two out of have the same sort of power station furnaces Regional EPA Director, the three occasions he conveyor system as by conveyor belts that Mr Adam Gilligan, on visited the site, no water other power stations, the evening of Thursday, was being sprayed to but it is not being used. are entirely enclosed. contain the dust. “We expect a February 16. “The EPA said the The closest EPA air major polluter like “Tens of thousands of conveyors will be in use Delta Electricity to pollution monitoring is tonnes of coal are being by April, but that is still do all they can to more than 25km from

two months away, so we believe operations should be closed down until that conveyor is operational,” he said. Dr Whelan said it was his contention that Delta was not investing in the power station because it was due to be closed in 2022. “It is being run like you would run a second hand car: get another year out of it without spending any money or take it to the wreckers. “That is not what best practice looks like; it is not being a good neighbour,” he said. Delta Electricity has been asked to respond to Environmental Justice Australia’s claims about Vales Point. Dr Whelan said the latest report to the EPA was part of a 39-year history of campaigning by local politicians and community groups to get air pollution monitoring in place for communities living close to power stations like Vales Point. Media release, Feb 17, 2017 James Whelan, Environmental Justice Australia Interview, Feb 27, 2017 Mike Campbell, Community Environment Network Interview, Feb 27, 2017 James Whelan, Environmental Justice

Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

March 14, 2017

6 March 2017

Fast ferry service proposal presented to Premier A fast ferry service with an interchange at Ettalong is being proposed as part of a billion dollar business plan that Central Coast Council has presented to the Premier and Cabinet of the NSW Government. The proposal, presented to NSW Government Ministers at a recent Community Cabinet meeting, included the “construction of Ettalong Wharf and Pier including a transport interchange and parking facilities. “Council is seeking an audience in confidence with the State Government to present the opportunity and formulate a strategy and roadmap for the realisation of the project with a view to it being a State Significant Project,” briefing notes presented to the Ministers said. “This State Significant Project will require partnership with the NSW State Government across a number of portfolios including planning, lands and Roads and Maritime Services. “It has the potential to change the face of the Central Coast region, bring significant

An example of a high speed ferry that travels between Japan and South Korea

employment and economic stimulus to the region and contribute to the social wellbeing of the community,” the notes said. Mr Steve Duncan, Chairman of the G5 Global Vision Foundation, and one of the proponents of the project, said it had involved years of planning. Mr Duncan had also played

a part in previous proposals to develop a fast ferry service between Central Coast and Sydney. “The Central Coast Council has been very meticulous in dealing with our proposal because they want it to happen,” Mr Duncan said. “Our group specialises in

infrastructure capital raising and we have serious projects on the go in India, South Africa and Asia,” he said. “We have the DA process and the public involvement process ready to go. “He have brought in the best architects and engineers Australia has to offer and this is

about infrastructure. “As an international investment banker, I knew I had to secure the funding first and that is what I have done. “We have asked Council to give us the green light to start working through all the issues with the community and the environment,” he said. Another element of the proposal would be a privatelyowned dredge to keep the Brisbane Water channel at Half Tide Rocks navigable for the fast ferries at all time. “The actual channel into Brisbane Water has been filled up from reckless dredging and beach replenishment so Brisbane Water is under-utilised because the boating fraternity won’t bring their vessels in,” he said. The boats to be used are similar to those that are currently in use as ferry services between South Korea and Japan. Cabinet briefing notes, 9 Feb 2017 Ian Reynolds, Central Coast Council Interview, 21 Feb 2017 Steve Duncan, G5 Global Vision Foundation Reporter: Jackie Pearson

Centenarians celebrate birthdays Two Peninsula Villages residents are celebrating milestone birthdays this month. Ms Biddy Abrahams and Ms Eileen Banks marked their 100th and 103rd birthdays respectively with a special morning tea held in their honour. The centenarians were each also given birthday cakes and a bunch of flowers containing one flower for each year of their lives. “We love to celebrate our residents, especially when they reach such important milestones as the 100 club,” said Peninsula Village chief executive officer Mr Shane Neaves. “We now have three lovely ladies who are aged over 100

years living at Peninsula Villages. “Both Biddy and Eileen are much admired around the Village so we were grateful for an opportunity to spoil them,” Mr Neaves added. The newest centenarian at the Village, Ms Abrahams has lived a fascinating life. Born in 1917 in the throes of the First World War, she was brought up by her grandmother and later trained to be a nursery help for a nanny. Ms Abrahams joined the Women’s Land Army in 1941 where one of her jobs was to deliver the mail to different farms. Because she didn’t know how to ride a bike, she was given a horse to make her rounds. The Women’s Land Army is

one of Ms Abraham’s fondest memories, as it was an opportunity for her to be back in the bush, acting resourcefully and feeling valued. Ms Abrahams moved to Umina in the early 1980s with her late husband Eric and said she loved the Central Coast lifestyle. She’s been living in her own home at Peninsula Villages for two years where she can enjoy hobbies such as knitting, crochet and embroidery. “Both Biddy and Eileen have a wonderful sense of humour and enjoy their independence, perhaps pointing to some secrets of ageing well,” Mr Neaves said. Media release, 27 Feb 2017 Katey Small, Brilliant Logic PR Ms Biddy Abrahams joined the 100 club in style at Peninsula Villages

Edition 415

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Wallarah 2 gets draft consent but conditions could make it unviable T

he Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) has issued draft development consent for the Wallarah 2 Coal Project.

The 78 conditions of consent echo the Department’s concern for the security of the Central Coast’s water supply. It has conceded that subsidence, caused by the Wallarah 2 coal project, would be massive, and would have an adverse impact on the water catchment, causing loss of drinking water. Under the draft conditions of consent, the Wallarah 2 coal project must provide compensatory water supply to any owner of privately owned land whose water supply is adversely and directly impacted (other than a negligible impact) as a result of the development. The compensatory water supply measures must provide an alternative long-term supply of water that is equivalent, in quality and volume, to the loss attributed to the development. Equivalent water supply must be provided, at least on an interim basis, within 24 hours of the loss being identiﬁed. Prior to the approval of any Extraction Plan that authorises extraction of Longwall 6N, the applicant must, in consultation with Central Coast Council and DPI Water, develop

a Central Coast Water Supply Compensatory Arrangement to compensate for the measured losses of water to the Central Coast Water Supply caused by underground coalmining on the site until the cessation of mining. Australian Coal Alliance Campaign Director, Mr Alan Hayes, said the compensatory water supply provisions would be impossible to achieve, except at enormous cost by the applicant, which makes the project unviable. “It would cost millions upon millions of dollars to try and achieve such a scenario with still no real guarantee of an adequate water supply,” Mr Hayes said. “We don’t have the luxury of a second water catchment on the Central Coast.

“The project was never viable and certainly this puts the nail in their cofﬁn. “You cannot put the water supply of 330,000 people at risk, just so the South Korean Government can have a supply of coal for power generation,” he said. The draft conditions of consent also put the burden of all subsidence damage with the mining company. The M1 Motorway, Mardi to Mangrove Creek Dam Pipeline, Main Northern Railway and the electricity transmission lines and towers must remain safe and serviceable. Any loss of serviceability must be fully compensated, based on the conditions that accompanied the Department’s draft consent. No longer is the Mine Subsidence Board

responsible for damage to subsidence affected homes. Wallarah 2 would be fully responsible for costs, including any compensation, to privately-owned residences, including built features, improvements, including farm dams, swimming pools, tennis courts, roads, tracks and fences. “Just like the compensatory water agreement, the cost will be astronomical and certainly makes any consideration to move forward unrealistic,” said Alan Hayes. ‘It’s doubtful that the PAC, when it goes to review, will change their position. “In 2014, they would not approve the mine because of uncertainty in being able to guarantee the security of the water

supply. “Wallarah 2’s own EIS confirms there will be a negative impact. “It’s time that the State Government put its own citizens first and put a stop to this whole affair, and put in place the legislation they promised to protect the water catchment.” The state’s independent Planning Assessment Commission will now review the Department’s assessment report which finds that the proposed underground mine near Wyong could be approved but with the extensive 78 conditions recommended. Those conditions include some addressing the Central Coast’s water resources. A public hearing has been scheduled to be held at the Wyong Golf Club, 319 Pacific Hwy, Wyong, on Wednesday, April 5, from 9:00am. Dr Oliver Holm, Planning’s Executive Director of Resource Assessments and Compliance, said the Department has carefully considered the revised proposal along with the Commission’s first review of the original proposal in 2014, especially

recommendations regarding water and subsidence. “We support the Commission’s recommendations and have now strengthened the conditions in our current assessment,” Dr Holm said. “This is in direct response to the Commission’s review and the community’s feedback during the public exhibition period. “New conditions recommended to the Commission by the Department include intensive and comprehensive monitoring of water resources, as well as independent audits of subsidence, surface water and groundwater. “The company should also be required to closely monitor subsidence and be prepared with Trigger Action Response Plans for the proposed mine’s longwalls. “There are also a suite of conditions to manage air quality, noise, impacts to landscape views, biodiversity and Aboriginal heritage. Continued page 4

STOP PRESS Gosford books are history: new Council is ‘safe, stable and sustainable’ - PAGE 3

THIS ISSUE contains 55 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

e Frkeeone!

Issue 112

Edition 413

20 March 2017

Liberals ‘knew of rail costs’ before election, Tesch claims The Liberal Government was aware of the escalating costs of the Woy Woy railway underpass before the 2015 State election, according documents secured by the Labor Party under Freedom of Information legislation. The estimates showed construction costs had escalated from $52 million to $112 million to complete the project. However, the Government kept quiet about the estimates until after the election, when it used them “as an excuse to scrap the project”, according to Labor candidate Ms Liesl Tesch. The Labor Party had obtained hundreds of pages of documents, emails, minutes of meetings and payment claims under Freedom of Information legislation, she said. “According to the documents, the State Government was made aware of the increased costs associated with the project on multiple occasions prior to the 2015 State Election. “In October last year, the former Minister for Roads, Mr Duncan Gay, claimed it was the former Gosford Council that had not adequately costed the project or informed the Government of the cost blowouts, despite numerous emails and documents suggesting otherwise,” she said.

Labor candidate for the Gosford by-election, Ms Liesl Tesch, with Shadow Minister for the Central Coast, Mr David Harris, at the level crossing in Woy Woy

The documents revealed that Central Coast Council had continued to receive funding for ongoing work on the project. By October 2016, the expenditure breakdown was roughly $4.1 million for project

management and consultancy fees; $5.8 million on the pedestrian underpass and adjacent road and footpath work and $5.3 million on preparatory works for the rail underpass and road construction at the base of Bulls Hill.

Minister, by adopting a “head-inthe-sand” approach to its true cost. “This reveals a scandal,” Ms Tesch said. “These documents reveal a State Liberal Government that has shown complete disregard for the Central Coast. “It hasn’t shown or applied the slightest bit of care or attention for the Central Coast. “Premier Berejiklian has overseen massive spending on Sydney-centric projects and is happy to bury her head in the sand when it comes funding our local infrastructure. “The Liberal candidate for Gosford needs to make a commitment to cleaning up the mess left behind by the Premier,” she said. Liberal candidate for Gosford, Ms Jilly Pilon, has claimed the $52 million promised by the NSW Government for the railway underpass was still available. However, she said the Council would need to ﬁnd the remainder of the money to complete the now $112 million project. Media release, 14 Mar 2017 Liesl Tesch, Labor Candidate for Gosford Interview, 16 Mar 2017 Jilly Pilon, Liberal Candidate for Gosford Reporter: Jackie Pearson

“Total expenditure to date is in the vicinity of $15.2 million,” the documents revealed. According to Ms Tesch, it was current NSW Premier, Ms Gladys Berejiklian, who botched the project when she was Transport

Gosford accounts referred for external audit The ﬁnancial reports for the former Gosford Council, for the period from July 1, 2015, to May 12, 2016, have been referred for an external audit following an Extraordinary Central Coast Council meeting on March 13.

prior to the Extraordinary Meeting to allow community members to present their views on the reports which were made public on March 9. Council administrator Mr Ian Reynolds said Council was “following due process” and had been required under the

proclamation to prepare ﬁnancial reports for the two former Councils, including the former Gosford Council. “My task as administrator is to ensure proper process has been followed and that these reports have been prepared under relevant legislation and accounting

standards and I am satisﬁed they have been,” Mr Reynolds said. “The reports will now be referred for external audit and we will await their advice. “The community can be assured it is business as usual for the new Central Coast Council. “We will continue to deliver

the services they need, want and value,” he added. The ﬁnancial reports and minutes of the meeting are available on Council’s website. Media release, 13 Mar 2017 Ian Reynolds, Central Coast Council More coverage page 5

A residents’ forum was held

MARCH 23, 2017

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ISSUE 154

Torrents of water containing toxic leachate are flowing into water catchment area T

he recent heavy rains have renewed community fears about the safety of the Mangrove Mountain landfill. Mountain Districts Association (MDA) spokesperson, Ms Marilyn Steiner, said: “The piecemeal way that the site has been constructed, with little regard for Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Guidelines on best practice, means that every time there is prolonged and heavy rain, the waste pile, with its steep sides, becomes saturated, and sheds torrents of water containing toxic leachate. “This leachate-laden water runs into the settlement ponds and ground water aquifer and also directly into the gully which leads to Stringybark Creek, Ourimbah Creek and the Central Coast’s water supply. “Once the settlement ponds are full, there is no place for the untreated water to go except offsite, which the EPA says is not permitted,” she said. “This prohibition does not appear, from many years of photos obtained through GIPA searches, to have been enforced. “MDA identified that blatant pumping out of settlement ponds plus the leachate pond off-site has been taking place under the nose of the EPA for years, and it has taken persistent questioning to engage the EPA in making its own enquiries and enforcing its own regulations,” she said. The substantial contaminant plume observed and photographed by residents in Ourimbah Creek in late July 2015 was traced back by Ken Brookes, Catchment Management Officer of the former Wyong Council, to Hallards Creek and thence uphill

Cell W in Feb 2016, holding an estimated 20 million litres of contaminated run-off

Spillway at SE corner of landﬁll, now fenced off and monitored by Operator with security cameras.

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Lack of audit trail a major drawback in certifying Council’s accounts he former Gosford Council’s draft financial accounts for 2015-16 included a $1.389 billion reduction in the value of its assets.

The draft also revealed that “serious control weaknesses” meant that Central Coast Council could not vouch for the accuracy of some balances in the reports. Central Coast Council Chief Executive Officer, Mr Rob Noble, said issues related to asset valuations and the “control issues” had resulted in matters being referred to unnamed third parties, understood to include the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), The NSW Auditor General and possibly the police. “The reason why we have been obliged to report to external agencies is because of these control issues and significant changes in valuations, and it will be up to those parties to determine whether they want to inquire further, hand it back to the Council to do more of its own investigation, or take no further action,” Mr Noble said.

In relation to the apparent inflated valuations of some assets, Mr Noble said there were two key elements. “The first one really related back to about 2010, to water authority assets, when there was a double counting of sewer manholes from 2010, so that we had to make an adjustment now for the prior year error,” Mr Noble said. He said the remaining part of the asset write down related to the 2014-2015 year, when $720 million of bulk earthworks assets could not be verified by the staff team putting the draft financial reports together. According to Mr Noble bulk earthworks included asphalt, tar, gravel, lime and all the other materials used to build roads. “The former Council did a revaluation, as they were required to do. “We are legally required to revalue all our fixed assets on a periodic basis to make sure we are describing them on a fair value basis, but it did not look right,” Mr Noble said. “It looked to be overstated, so our staff started inquiring into that, looking at the standard

methodologies for valuing bulk earthworks,” he said. “They compared the method used in Gosford with the method used right across NSW local government, and they found a drastic difference in methodology. “So the result of that was a $720 million reduction in the value of bulk earthworks assets.” Land under roads was another category of asset that was written down in the draft financial accounts. “It is a little bit hard to answer this one, because there was $74 million worth of an asset showing on Gosford Council’s books that had insufficient data or records …to demonstrate what that particular supposed value actually applied to. “We could not find a connection to that value and any land under roads, there were no records.” In answering a question about how such a miscalculation could occur, Mr Noble said: “I don’t know the answer to that question and nor do my finance staff, they just don’t know why that figure was sitting there when there were no supporting documents. “We would have needed to see

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some documentary evidence of a connection between the $74 million and evidence of ownership of land under roads somewhere in the Gosford Local Government Area,” he said. In addition to the total $1.389 billion asset write down, the other major issue revealed by the draft financial accounts of the former Gosford Council was described as “significant weaknesses in fundamental information technology and other internal controls”. The report tabled at the Extraordinary General Meeting held in Gosford on Monday, March 13, said that the most notable weaknesses were “inoperative security controls that enabled a limited number of officers and software vendors to script changes, deletions or additions into the financial tables contained within the financial system without any effective control reporting or audit trail. “The apparent absence of such controls is unusual and not expected in a sophisticated and large government entity such as the former Gosford City Council. “In the absence of any reporting on changes made to the data, it is

not possible to confirm or validate that no unauthorised changes were made.” It is believed that up to 50 officers and third parties may have been able to make changes to, delete data from or add data to financial tables. In response to a question about how such security issues could have been allowed to arise, Mr Noble said: “We don’t know the answer to that. “We know they existed, there was a lack of ability to track changes that were related to our corporate financial data,” he said. The draft reports stated that Central Coast Council had no way of knowing whether changes had not been made to the data, but when Mr Noble was asked whether there was evidence that changes had been made, he said: “We have neither, because there is no audit trail documentation to provide us with certainty that it hasn’t been tampered with.” Under the NSW Local Government Act, the financial statements of the former Gosford Council, up to its dismissal on May 12, 2016, must be certified by senior staff as presenting fairly the Council’s financial results for

the period. This certification is meant to ensure that those senior staff take both responsibility for and ownership of the financial statements. However, as a result of the anomalies found in the preparation of the draft accounts, the Central Coast Council stated it was “unable to fully attest to the completeness and accuracy of the balances within the Income Statement and classifications of equity within the financial reports.” It has rewritten the prescribed statement required under the Local Government Act to deal with the unusual nature of the draft accounts and has provided ‘caveats’ above the spaces for the signatures of Mr Noble, Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, and Chief Financial Officer, Mr Stephen Naven. Agenda, Mar 13, 2017 Extraordinary meeting, Central Coast Council Interview, Mar 16, 2017 Rob Noble, Central Coast Council Jackie Pearson, journalist

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Extensive public interest shown at Extraordinary General Meeting leven community members addressed a special residents’ forum called before the Central Coast Council’s Extraordinary General Meeting on March 13 to discuss the tabling of the draft financial reports of the former Gosford Council.

Questions common to all speakers included: how long had the sloppy accounting practices been going on; and why were they not detected earlier? Mr Kevin Armstrong said he had lived on the Coast for 43 years, “raised a family and run a business in Gosford CBD and I am bloody proud of the place. “I was really pained the other morning when I heard on the ABC that the Premier had been briefed on the alarming findings in Gosford Council’s accounts.” Mr Armstrong said he was unapologetically of the view that the merger of Gosford and Wyong Councils was a mistake. “I think the Central Coast is a growing area and it will outgrow the capacity of one council to administer it.” He said he believed the information revealed in the draft accounts of the former Gosford Council called into question the validity of the votes held by both former Councils that narrowly resulted in their agreement to merge. “There has been some … misrepresentation of facts, and none of the Central Coast Councillors voted in full knowledge of the state of Gosford’s books,” he said. He said the $74 million of assets that could not be located or verified was “very big”.

Members of the community at the Residents’ Forum held before the Extraordinary General Meeting of Central Coast Council

He thanked Mr Rob Noble, CEO, and Mr Ian Reynolds, for bringing the issues out into the public. Mr Armstrong raised the point that rates and water charges were determined by IPART based on the value of a Council’s assets. “At the very least, I think it is valid to call for delaying elections until Council can give a clean bill of health to the Gosford accounts. “Anyone considering standing for Councillor would have to think very carefully,” he said. Dr Stephen Goodwin, from Mangrove Mountain, applauded the efforts that the Council had found discrepancies and forwarded its own findings to ICAC. “It represents a forensic approach to mismanagement at the highest level, presumably

done without fear or favour, done in the knowledge that court proceedings may result that may have implications for the current council,” Dr Goodwin said. He questioned, in light of the forensic approach taken by Central Coast Council to the former Gosford Council’s accounts, why Council had resisted opportunities presented to it by Mountain Districts Association (MDA) to take a similar level of interest in the landfill at Mangrove Mountain. Dr Goodwin said Council had told MDA that the landfill was one of the two most important issues it had before it, and was an “undeniable risk to the Central Coast water supply”. “In the spirit of today’s meeting, the Central Coast Community urges Council to review its position

on the Mangrove Mountain Landfill, and have the site closed and remediated to a standard acceptable to the community,” Dr Goodwin said. Ms Joy Cooper from Green Point said she questioned the lack of information in the accounts about trust funds and trust reserves. “Are there separate trust accounts for each Crown Land reserve, is income generated from a particular Crown Land reserve being put back into the trust account for the particular lot that the income is being derived from?” Ms Cooper questioned. She said particular Crown Land reserves that generated income which should be easily accounted for included Gosford Tennis Courts and Leagues Club Field. Sources of income that needed

to be banked specifically for the particular reserves the income was generated from included the summer circus on Leagues Club Field and the pie shop on the waterfront near the boat ramp car park. “With the water park income on Crown Land, will it be invested back into that lot as it should be under the Crown Lands Act? Ms Cooper also asked: “Is it possible for residents to ask questions of Council’s financial officer once residents have had time to have a proper look and will the findings of the audit be made public?” Mr David Abrahams also thanked the executive team of Central Coast Council for bringing the issues related to the former Gosford Council’s accounting

practices to public light. “At last we have some sunlight on these issues,” Mr Abrahams said. He said allowing uncomfortable things to come forward would build confidence in the community, but past practices definitely presented a strong argument for better governance. “In the past, deals were done to expedite them quickly, but good decisions are decisions made on consensus,” he said. Mr Abrahams said the lack of investment in Gosford over the past 40 years was “because of the current situation”. He told of bringing two big industry superannuation funds to the Coast, but because their first stop was Gosford, they cancelled a “serious investment proposal” within half an hour of arriving. “If you don’t have confidence, if you don’t build on consensus, you scare away investment,” he said. Mr Abrahams also asked questions of Council including whether the need for further investigation of Gosford’s accounts would have an impact on the timing of the local election. “Will the asset write downs in fact change the valuation and interest rate on current and future loans the council, the ratepayers, have to pay?” he asked. He called for Council to “elevate the situation and collaborate with the very best people so the new, elected Council can stand with confidence of the very best governance practices”. Interview notes, Mar 13, 2017 Extraordinary General Meeting, Central Coast Council Jackie Pearson, journalist

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Draft financial statements beg more questions than they answer he 222-pages of draft financial statements from the former Gosford Council beg more questions than they answer, but some answers have not been forthcoming from the Central Coast Council.

Coast Community News interviewed CEO, Mr Rob Noble, about the draft accounts on March 16, but the interview was limited to 15 minutes and was not long enough to cover many of the discussion points identified from our reading of the accounts. At the end of the interview, Mr Noble offered to answer any remaining questions via email. Coast Community News dispatched a list of 15 further questions to Mr Noble. For instance, Mr Noble was asked to help us identify where in the draft financial reports we could find reference to information such as the proceeds from the sale of Kibbleplex. He was asked for further explanation of the statement “at the end of 2014-15, the restricted

cash balances existing in the financial systems exceeded the actual total cash balance by $14 million”. Coast Community News wanted to know if that meant $14 million was missing from the restricted cash balances. Other questions were asked about the status of the restricted cash balances of the former Gosford Council including where we could find the money that had been raised over years of ratepayer levies to pay for the long-promised regional library. Questions were also asked about why the books of the former Wyong Council were not exposed to the same forensic auditing process as the Gosford books and why the Wyong draft accounts had been prepared by its existing auditor (Price Waterhouse Coopers) when, arguably, it would have been in the best interests of the new council to select a completely independent auditor to examine the financial affairs of both former councils. The draft financial accounts revealed an $8.9 million recovery from exotic investments, clearly a reference to the former Gosford

Council’s failed investment in Collateralised Debt Obligations (CDOs). The item referred to a settlement with LBA (understood to be Lehman Brothers Australia) but Gosford Council had not been part of the class action brought against Lehman Brothers by other local councils and not-for-profits. Coast Community News also asked for clarification as to the decision by the CEO, Administrator and Chief Financial Officer to “sign off” the draft reports with caveats and not use the sign off prescribed in the Local Government Act. The prescriptive sign-off in the Local Government Act is included to ensure the senior officers of any Council signing off on accounts can be held responsible for those accounts. We considered our questions reasonably innocuous and fair, given the regular statements made by Central Coast Council Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, about the new council’s agenda of transparency and community engagement. “So many questions,” Mr Noble replied, adding that he “did not have time to address them last

night and we’ll be on a continuous roundabout if we deal with everything at this incredibly busy time”. Instead of answering individual questions, Mr Noble sent the following statement: “Council has been factual and transparent in helping the community understand the former Gosford finances. “Information relating to the former Gosford City Council finances is in the Council report publicly available on Council’s website. “In addition, Council’s comments relating to the report have been detailed in the media release issued on Thursday, March 9 and on Monday, March 13, following the Extraordinary General Meeting,” Mr Noble’s statement said. “Council also held a resident’s forum, listened to the concerns of the community and addressed those concerns during the meeting. “The financial position of the Central Coast Council is very strong and our plan is fully funded. “Even after the adjustments detailed in the financial reports,

Central Coast Council has [inherited] fixed assets with a gross replacement cost of over $9.5 billion. “The January 2017 Investment Report was presented to the February ordinary meeting of Council and it noted that Central Coast Council has $381 million in cash and investments. “Council’s capacity to meet its obligations is strong and in no doubt. “The Quarter 2 business review, presented to the Council in February 2017, said Central Coast Council is on track to record a surplus of over $10 million this financial year (before capital grants and contributions). “I see these financial reports as an opportunity to draw a line on the former Councils, and focus on Central Coast Council and the opportunities it has. “I stress again that on all metrics available, Council is in a strong financial position. “The plan is fully funded, we are forecasting to be in the black, and we have resources to meet our obligations in the short and longer term. “The reports have been referred

for external audit and we await their advice.” The timeframe is unknown for the completion of the external audit, which is the next step in the finalisation of the 2015-16 accounts. “The external auditors may require more time to complete audit procedures and form their audit opinion due to the existence of issues noted in this report that have altered the risk profile of the audit,” the draft accounts said. Mr Noble was also asked to advise if the drawn-out audit process could result in a deferral of the local election, due in September, but Council has not provided an answer to that question either. Agenda, Mar 13, 2017 Extraordinary meeting, Central Coast Council Interview, Mar 16, 2017 Rob Noble, Central Coast Council Media statement, Mar 17, 2017 Rob Noble, Central Coast Council Jackie Pearson, journalist

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Greg Best likely to be removed from Local Representation Committee for speaking out

entral Coast Council has confirmed that the Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, has been accommodated during his tenure in a townhouse at the Magenta Resort at a cost of $550 a week. Mr Reynold’s accommodation costs had been recently reported (not by Coast Community News) as costing $1100 per week, but this has been refuted by Council. Under the Council Policy on Facilities and Expenses, the Administrator is to be provided with accommodation within the Central Coast Local Government Area that is convenient to the Gosford and Wyong offices, a clarification from Council said on Tuesday, March 21. This is due to the requirement for the Administrator in this role to attend early morning briefings and meetings as well as evening and weekend commitments, the statement said. “Living locally ensures the Administrator can fulfil his duties more effectively, be more accessible to the community and understand the issues affecting the region and the Central Coast

Former Wyong Shire Councillors, Mr Greg Best and Mr Doug Eaton

community much better,” it said. The Policy was adopted at the August 10, 2016, Council meeting, following a public exhibition period where no comments were received. The Policy is publicly available on the website, in the minutes of the August 10 meeting and on request. However, former Wyong Mayor and independent Councillor, Mr Greg Best, has broken the gag

placed on all former Councillors who are members of the Local Representation Committee, to call for Mr Reynolds to be sacked. It is understood Mr Best’s decisions to speak publicly on issues surrounding Central Coast Council whilst a member of the Local Representation Committee had resulted in him being the subject of a confidential item on the agenda at Central Coast Council’s ordinary meeting on Wednesday, March 22.

The agenda item, entitled, “Report on issue arising concerning a member of the Local Representation Committee” is understood to relate to Mr Best and may have been a reprimand or even pertained to his removal from the committee.“It would appear community pressure has pushed Council into finally revealing the Administrator’s accommodation costs at the Magenta Resort,’ Mr Best said. “This latest attempt by the Administrator to hose down community outrage does not address the fact that he could easily commute home [to Sydney’s Hills District] as 40,000 Coast residents do daily,” he said. “Over the 16 months of his Council contract, this accommodation will cost the ratepayers $40,000. “This amounts to the General Rates of almost 40 ratepayers, so the question remains, could this money be better spent? “As a former independent Mayor and Wyong Councillor of 21 years, enough is enough. “This is the clear message that I am getting from local ratepayers in the wake of Gosford Gate and now 5-Star Resort Rage. “For Mr Reynolds to think it’s

OK to live in a 5-Star Resort, 45 minutes from home, at the expense of struggling ratepayers, has outraged the community, policy or no policy. “This out-of-town Administrator is clearly out of touch and in my view has failed the pub test on every level. “I believe he has lost the confidence of the community and the Premier must act to remove him. “I have referred to the forced amalgamation as a Pig with Lipstick and make no apology for my frankness. “As a member of Council’s Local Review Committee (LRC) advising the Administrator, I am utterly forbidden to speak to the community or make any public comment on anything. “This gagging charade of former Councillors must end. “The public have every democratic right to know exactly what is going on with their money, their rates,” he said. “We now know eleven months on from the forced amalgamation that there are massive anomalies with the former Gosford Council’s books. “As far back as October 2015,

I formally called for a full and independent forensic audit of Gosford’s books ahead of the amalgamation, only to be howled down. “Now the former Gosford Councillors are ducking for cover and anomalies raised in the draft accounts have been referred to the ICAC. “There now has to be a full and independent investigation in to this sorry state of affairs and Wyong ratepayers should not be paying for any losses. “So alarming is the largest asset write down in Local Government history, as revealed behind closed doors, that nothing short of a full parliamentary inquiry into this systemic mess will do. “We cannot trust the bureaucracy to investigate itself. “It must be a full parliamentary inquiry,” Mr Best said.

Media release, Mar 21, 2017 Ian Reynolds, Central Coast Council Media statement, Mar 21, 2017 Greg Best, former Wyong Councillor

Liesl

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PAGE 8 MARCH 23, 2017

ELECTION

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Greens’ candidate is the most experienced reens candidate for the Gosford By Election, Ms Abigail Boyd, is hoping her political history and transparent campaign will help voters see the Greens as a realistic prospect for the Coast.

Ms Boyd, who is the most experienced candidate in this election, identified childcare access and affordability, rail infrastructure, Council generated renewable energy and improving education as the key platforms she would address if elected on April 8. “Parents on the Central Coast are facing long waiting lists for childcare centres and fees are growing,” Ms Boyd said. “The Greens are committed to secure funding for new community-run and non-forprofit childcare centres and to continue to push for all children to have access to two years of free public pre-school education,” she continued. Ms Boyd also outlined why rail infrastructure and more specifically halving the commute between Gosford and Sydney, was the cornerstone of her campaign. “With better signalling, track realignments and new tilt trains, the 40,000 commuters on the Central Coast could be travelling to Sydney in half the time. “Wi-fi on trains, and express services to reduce congestion will

mean a more comfortable and productive journey. “Quicker and more efficient trains to and from the Central Coast will create more job options, increase tourism and attract new businesses to the Coast,” Ms Boyd said. Ms Boyd said she’d also focus on activating community spaces with an emphasis on brining world class playgrounds like The Runway, the new playground and community park taking shape in Umina. “The Greens want every major population centre on the Coast to have an amazing playground, with modern, safe and age-appropriate equipment and shade cloths. “The Greens want these community spaces to offer plenty for adults to do too,” she said.

Ms Boyd also said if elected she would call on Council to deliver cheap, clean and renewable energy through community power companies. “The Greens plan to make every Council a community energy provider by 2030, and to achieve this, we want to work with Council to establish community power companies run by Council. “This will ensure energy security and provide affordable and sustainable energy to the region. “Council can use renewable energy while also becoming a wholesaler of the power generated on council land and buildings,” Ms Boyd said. A university campus for Gosford is also a part of Ms Boyd’s agenda. “The Greens plan to bring a university campus to Gosford,

revitalising the heart of our city. “Around the world, university towns flourish. “Students create the demand for cafés, bars, independent shops, and affordable housing. “Universities are great catalysts for new thinking, new enterprise and new initiatives. “A university campus will be a driver of development and create more educational opportunities and jobs,” Ms Boyd said. Despite her policies, Ms Boyd has been criticised for propelling rail infrastructure as the top priority for the Central Coast Greens instead of focusing on key environmental issues for the region like Wallarah 2. Ms Boyd hit back at critics and said the next Gosford MP elect needs to deliver on crucial infrastructure to match the future vision for the region and the projected population growth. “Our top priority is forwardthinking, long-term planning, for our region. “That means planning for sustainable, liveable, healthy communities. “The State Government wants 70,000 extra people to live on the Coast in the next 20 years, but fails to make the necessary commitment to invest in our transport infrastructure. “We’ve been talking about high speed rail for decades, with no action by State or Federal Governments. “Now we have the technology

to use the existing lines to halve the time it takes to travel from Newcastle to Sydney, and yet the State Government is more interested in spending billions of taxpayer dollars on ramming toll roads through neighbourhoods, providing what can only be a short-term fix to traffic problems. “The Central Coast desperately needs the State Government to make a serious commitment to improve our public transport network, beginning with rail. “Faster train journeys will open up a wider area in which people can viably seek employment, will allow tourists to travel to the Coast quicker and will encourage businesses to set up on the Coast, creating local jobs,” Ms Boyd said. In regards to Wallarah 2, Ms Boyd said the Central Coast Greens have campaigned against Wallarah 2 for years and would continue to support the community in opposing it. The seat of Gosford has been notorious for its swing and Ms Boyd said she hoped her experience would help pave the way for the Greens in an election dominated by finger pointing in the major parties. Ms Boyd said she hoped her position as the most experienced candidate would help direct voters towards the Greens and cut through the ‘celebrity’ factor that has become a key aspect of this election. “We have a rotating door of Liberal and Labor MPs on the Coast and despite having some

of the most marginal seats in the State, we still get very little attention from State Parliament. “This by-election is an opportunity for parties to be engaging with the community and listening to their concerns on a range of issues, even if the Liberals don’t think they’ve got a chance of winning by not campaigning actively, they are missing out on an opportunity to discuss their policies and better understand the electorate. “By failing to take the election seriously, the Liberals are reinforcing the community’s perception of them as being out of touch and more interested in pleasing vested interests than representing their electorates,” Ms Boyd said. “We are committed to fixing the long-term planning failures on the Peninsula, ensuring residents get their fair share of road funding, improving local schools, providing affordable and accessible childcare, protecting and enhancing community spaces, and opening up job opportunities by reducing train times,” Ms Boyd said. Ms Boyd was coy regarding the Greens’ preferences for the election and said the Central Coast Greens have not made any decisions on preferences at this time. Interview, Mar 20, 2017 Abigail Boyd, Central Coast Greens Dilon Luke, Journalist

Labor officially launches By-election campaign

SW Labor Leader, Mr Luke Foley, has announced a multimillion dollar development plan for the Central Coast at the official launch of the Gosford By-election campaign for Labor candidate, Ms Liesl Tesch.

It included a $100 million fund to create jobs, a 7-day a week Nurse Walk-in Centre in Gosford and a huge boost in funding for both TAFE and school maintenance. The Nurse Walk-In Centre is a state-first – to be open seven days

a week, staffed by experienced nurses, for one-off medical advice and treatment. Mr Foley pledged to start restoring TAFE to its former status – as the key educational centre for young people to learn skills of benefit to them and the businesses where they are employed. He said the Liberals have aggressively assaulted and dismantled TAFE in the region, sacking 185 teachers across the Hunter Institute at a time when Central Coast youth unemployment is at 18.3 per cent.

One in five young people on the Central Coast does not have a job. A scandalous example, Mr Foley said, of the clear neglect the Liberal State Government has arrogantly displayed in Gosford. “Our Central Coast Jobs Action Plan will create jobs, and bring prosperity,” Mr Foley said. “We will create a Nurse WalkIn Centre in Gosford … because good medical treatment should not depend on the size of your wallet. Ms Tesch added: “The Berejiklian Government is defined by what it does not do for Gosford.

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“It finds it easy to neglect this region, and try and make us poor cousins. “We’ll change that, very fast. “We have developed a comprehensive, costed, achievable, plan for the Gosford region. “There’ll be continuing community input and we’ll respond to what people tell us, about what they want and need.” Media release, Mar 20, 2017 Maegan Sykes, office of Luke Foley

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PAGE 10 MARCH 23, 2017

ELECTION

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Citizen of the Year to stand for Christian Democratic Party osford City’s 2016 Citizen of the Year, Mr Andrew Church, will stand as the Christian Democratic Party’s candidate in the Gosford by-election on April 8.

Mr Church, who is married with three children, grew up on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, but moved to Gosford 25 years ago. He established his own businesses and has two training organisations: Eagle Wing Education and Training, and a highly specialised training academy, Kreative Kaizen. Mr Church is Director of RHEMA FM Gosford, Chairman of the Central Coast Interactive War Exhibit Inc. and a Board Member of Rise Up Foundation, an organisation that helps youth with eating disorders. He is also a member of the Gosford City Chamber of Commerce and a member of the Gosford National Service ReEnactment Group, which sees him take part in ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day activities. Mr Church has written seven books, including the best seller How to Solve Your Problems without A Super Hero: A DIY Guide for the Mere Mortal. Through these experiences, Mr

Church’s expertise has become highly sought after by major Australian companies such as WH Williams, Hamilton Island Enterprises, Nudie Juice, Baiada Chicken, Sandvik Australia, and CBC Bearings. Mr Church is keen to use his party’s balance of power in the NSW Legislative Council to push his policies. His first target is close the level crossing at Woy Woy and replace it with an underpass.. “After about 40 years of Labor representation in the State

Parliament and about four years of Liberal representation, this is the golden opportunity to give the CDP a go at fixing this mess,” he said. Mr Church would also like to reopen a Service NSW branch on the Peninsula and open the Gosford Performing Arts Centre. He is opposed to having another government building on the site of the old Gosford Primary School. Media release, Mar 16, 2017 Ian Smith, Christian Democratic Party

Jilly Pilon to stand for the Liberal Party s Jilly Pilon has been announced as the Liberal candidate for the Byelection in the Seat of Gosford.

Although she lives outside the electorate, Ms Pilon said she belonged to the Woy Woy branch of the Liberal Party, joining after she met the Branch President at an event in the Central Coast Car Museum, where Prime Minister, Mr Malcolm Turnbull, was speaking. Ms Pilon said she was born in Gosford Hospital in 1970, attended Erina Heights Public School and Terrigal High School, and has called Wamberal (outside the electorate) home for most of her life. She said her connections with the Gosford electorate were strong, even though she lived outside its boundaries. When she left high school, Ms Pilon worked for the National Australia Bank for 12 years, including stints in the Umina and Woy Woy branches. In 2015, Ms Pilon’s youngest son, Banjo, was killed when he was hit by a car on his skateboard. “Obviously, the passing of Banjo changed all of our family’s lives for ever in many ways, we were able to donate Banjo’s organs and he was able to save six lives, including little babies, children and a grandmother,” she said, “Community rallied behind us to put forward the idea of a skate

park as a memorial for Banjo, but also to help keep kids off the street. “Mick and I are still working with Council to finalise the skate park after we successfully lobbied to get bipartisan support for $500,000 federal funding for the project.” Encouraging people to consider organ donation has become a passion for Ms Pilon and she has been invited to the 2017 donate life forum in Brisbane in May. Her other son, 14-year-old Fletcher, won Australia’s Got Talent in 2016. “We took Fletcher down to perform at State Parliament at an education presentation last year. “Parliament was sitting and we went into question time, and we

were quite shocked by the whole process, and my son said ‘Mum I think you should get involved’, and that was another little thing that led to this commitment.” Ms Pilon was four days into her campaign when she spoke with Central Coast Newspapers. She said she would do her best to connect with as many people in the electorate as possible. “I think at the moment, because it is just the first week, it is really about what the community wants from me, so I am connecting, door knocking, meeting with different businesses, making phone calls.” Interview, Mar 16, 2017 Jilly Pilon, Liberal Candidate for Gosford By-election Jackie Pearson, journalist

Holstein not standing in By-election

ormer State Member for Gosford, Mr Chris Holstein, has declared he would not run as a candidate in the Gosford By-election. Having been the subject of much

speculation regarding contesting the seat, and having given it due consideration, the reality is, I currently hold a number of positions within the not-for-profit sector, organisations that work hard to support those suffering homelessness or escaping

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domestic violence, assisting those with disabilities and supporting our youth on the Coast,” Mr Holstein said. “Whilst these commitments are currently short-term, to step away from them at this time with major initiatives and substantial projects in planning or commenced, would be something I couldn’t do without a feeling of desertion and of letting good people down,” he said. “In the end, my conscience wouldn’t let me walk away from these important initiatives and projects that have been commenced for those vulnerable sectors of our community.

“This coming by-election for the seat of Gosford has had Labor and Liberal anoint their candidates (by various means) and those selected are of good character, have a story to tell, and no doubt will have a desire to make a difference if elected,” Mr Holstein said. “But this is a by-election, it will not change government nor would it place government in a position to deal with cross benches. “It’s a two-year term, a difficult time to get up, running, across the issues and needs of the community fully.

“So the community need to decide in electing an opposition member or one within the government, but either with little to nil political experience. “In making that choice at the ballot box, the question is who will be the most effective. “The public has a right to expect that whoever is elected to the seat, acts firstly with the community in mind, and not solely under direction of those who anointed them from the parties. “So I wish the candidate’s the best of luck and hope that they

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are true to themselves first, the community second, and the party last. “Be assured that the Central Coast Taskforce will be highlighting the issues of this region and especially those within the Seat of Gosford as agenda items for them to address or ignore at their own peril,” Mr Holstein said.

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Debate underway over possible single Waterfront foreshore authority

he Peninsula Chamber of Commerce has called on both major parties to commit to a single foreshore authority to oversee the redevelopment of the Gosford foreshore in the lead up to the Gosford by-election. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With the Gosford by-election looming, its high time that both parties show a level of commitment to the future of Gosford by supporting the setting up of an independent Brisbane Water Foreshore Authority to take charge of the Gosford Waterfront,â&#x20AC;? said Peninsula Chamber President, Mr Matthew Wales. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in the interests of all of us that Governments get on with the job of revitalising the foreshore area and create an environment that attracts investment,â&#x20AC;? Mr Wales said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The new Authority should be set up in a similar way as the highly successful Honeysuckle Development Corporation in Newcastle which transformed the old dock yards into a magnificent public space and a commercial/ residential hub,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Gosford deserves the same attention as Newcastle, and should be funded to the same tune as Honeysuckle was. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The NSW Government and Commonwealth at the time allocated $100 million to the Newcastle waterfront which completely transformed the area. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Its task should be to open up the Gosford Harbour to the community by creating quality recreational, commercial and residential waterfront areas so as to unlock lifestyle opportunities to

locals and investors. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The problem at the moment is that investors and lending institutions still have reservations in making substantial financial commitments to the Gosford CBD so we should create an environment that changes that perception. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The big money wants to be on the waterfront not at the back of town. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s set up an independent authority to facilitate that outcome. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Both the Labor and Liberal candidates for the Gosford byelection have a chance to show vision and leadership in the Gosford waterfront debate. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hope that leadership comes front and centre.â&#x20AC;? The Central Coast Council said, at this stage, it would not comment as it would need to see more detail on any proposed NSW Government authority to manage the Waterfront and consider Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s role. Ms Claire Braund, President of the Gosford Waterfront Alliance said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The role of an â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;independentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; development authority is essentially at the macro planning stage, listening to, evaluating and disseminating ideas from property owners, business people, residents, community groups, and potential investors within the framework of the local LEP and DCP. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We could argue that much of this work has been done through the 2010 Masterplan,â&#x20AC;? Ms Braund said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;While Newcastle is making great progress, it is worth noting that it has taken 25 years to get the foreshore development, and

By-election candidates invited to town hall style public meeting osford Waterfront Alliance (GWA) has invited all candidates in the By-election for the State Seat of Gosford to participate in a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;town hall styleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; meeting on Friday, March 31.

The meeting will be an opportunity for the candidates to state their views on the future of the Gosford Waterfront, the potential to save the remaining two-thirds of the school site from sale to a private developer, and Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proposal to position a performing arts centre on the Leagues Club Field. The meeting will also be a

forum for candidates to state their position on community concerns about the management of Crown Land in the electorate. The meeting will be held at the Gosford Anglican Church in Mann St, with doors opening at 6:00pm for a 6:30pm start. Each candidate will be given 10 minutes to address the meeting, specifically on the topics outlined by GWA. All candidates who have RSVPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d to date has also said they are willing to accept questions from the floor.

the resulting impact on the CBD of Newcastle can be seen in the number of empty shopfronts and lack of any new investment in the area,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A foreshore authority focused purely on the waterfront areas of the Central Coast could see prime locations sold to the highest bidder for more apartments we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need and office buildings that would be better located within the CBD. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This has already started with the ATO and State Finance Office being built on the site of the former Gosford Public School. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We all speak constantly about the need to revitalise the Gosford CBD and this requires work in the CBD itself, not on the periphery. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In terms of the Central Coast Regional Development Corporation (CCRDC), its track record is dubious and the organisation lacks transparency and clarity around what it actually does. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Creating a similar body would not in any way improve civic leadership or create a strong and unified vision for our cities and prime waterfront locations. Media release, Mar 19, 2017 Matthew Wales, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce Media statement, Mar 21, 2017 Central Coast Council media Media statement, Mar 22, 2017 Claire Braund, Gosford Waterfront Alliance Jackie Pearson, journalist

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ELECTION

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Chamber finally speaks up about Waterfront as an election issue he future of the Gosford Waterfront is quickly becoming a byelection issue as both the Gosford-Erina and Coastal Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Peninsula Chamber, call for a bigger picture approach to its development and management.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Last week, we secured a meeting with the NSW Deputy Premier, Mr John Barilaro, and the Minister for Planning, Mr Anthony Roberts,â&#x20AC;? said Gosford-Erina and Coastal Chamber President, Ms Alison Vidler. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We spoke about the long history of planning for the waterfront and the many plans that we have seen and heard of throughout the years,â&#x20AC;? Ms Vidler said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We stated that it was now time for action and we needed Local Government and State Government to work together to help us make this a reality,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We need a plan that ticks all the boxes, at least most, from the 2010 Master Plan for the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;actualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Waterfront itself. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The plan needs to also have a component of giving back to the community with green space, community facilities and the like.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Just as important, the plan needs to have the right financial backing so that we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have more land banking currently happening in our City. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have also had many discussions with Central Coast Council. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They too have also stressed the need for the Waterfront to progress. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have been assured that this is one of their top priorities, as seen at their recent developersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; forum held last month.â&#x20AC;? Ms Vidler said there had been discussions around the need for a local â&#x20AC;&#x153;authorityâ&#x20AC;? to be formed to manage the Waterfront â&#x20AC;&#x153;but the Chamber believes that with Local Government and State Government now in discussions about the Waterfront, that this is the best course of action at this point in time. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sometimes an appointed authority does not give a good balance. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We will continue to follow this through with both levels of Government. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are many exciting times ahead for our Capital Cityâ&#x20AC;?, Ms Vidler said. The tender for the rest of the old school site will be announced very soon. â&#x20AC;&#x153;After speaking with DOMA Group, the ATO is on track.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bonython Towers is selling very well along with other exciting apartments around the CBD. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have large companies who we are in discussions with who are looking to relocate their entire manufacturing plants here. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cellate, who presented at our February event, is just one example,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In saying this though, we need more than just apartments. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We need the actual Waterfront activated to help sustain all the apartment growth in and around the CBD. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We need jobs, we need state of the art conference and hotel facilities and other vital infrastructure to help our Capital Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future and the future as a region.â&#x20AC;? She said the Chamber was looking forward to meeting with the candidates for the April 8 Seat of Gosford by-election â&#x20AC;&#x153;and continuing the spotlight on Gosford, Erina and Terrigal members as a whole and supporting the initiatives being taken by relevant stakeholders.â&#x20AC;? Media release, Mar 21, 2017 Alison Vidler, Gosford-Erina and Coastal Chamber Mar 22, 2017 Claire Braund, Gosford Waterfront Alliance Jackie Pearson, journalist

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New planning proposal to rezone Peat Island and part of Mooney Mooney he latest version of a planning proposal to rezone the former psychiatric facility on the Crown Land of Peat Island has been recommended for adoption by Central Coast Council Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds.

The planning proposal would see land on the island, and in Mooney Mooney, rezoned to permit a mix of residential, community, environmental, recreation and employment land uses. Mr Reynolds was expected to accept the staff recommendation at Council’s ordinary meeting on Wednesday, March 22, which would result in the preparation of a planning proposal to amend the Gosford Local Environmental Plan (GLEP) to rezone the land from the SP2 Infrastructure zone to the suggested mix. If Mr Reynolds did accept the staff recommendation, the planning proposal would need to be forwarded to the Department of Planning and Environment (DP&E) to request a gateway determination and a delegation, so that Council could finalise and make the draft Local Environmental Plan in accordance with the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act. The amendment to the existing Development Control Plan (DCP) would then have to be prepared and exhibited, if DP&E allowed a gateway determination. Community and government agency consultation would follow. An initial planning proposal from Property NSW was supported by the former Gosford Council on December 9, 2014 and the Gateway process initiated. However, in September 2015, Property NSW and Gosford Council were advised by the DP&E that additional information was required before the proposal could be considered for Gateway determination.

Retailers moving out of West Gosford Shopping Centre he closure of 11 of the 25 retail spaces in in the West Gosford Shopping Centre has sparked outrage and concern from residents who are fearful that their community hub will soon become an empty shell.

From left an aerial view of the locality and, right, the proposal site outlined in red

The modified planning proposal was lodged with Central Coast Council on October 18, 2016, “which responded to issues outlined in correspondence received from the DP&E.” The site includes land east and west of the M1 Motorway at Mooney and the entirety of Peat Island, and includes the former Mooney Mooney Public School. Peat Island, formerly known as Rabbit Island, has historically been Crown Land since European settlement. The island was dedicated for use as an asylum for alcoholics. Construction of the buildings associated with the asylum commenced in 1902, and since then, the site has been used as a psychiatric facility, home for boys, and as a disability institution until its permanent closure in 2010. “This land is now redundant and surplus to the needs of the NSW State Government and is proposed to be sold,” the staff report to Mr Reynolds said. According to the report, the Mooney Mooney Public School opened in 1939, but a decline in enrolments and an increase in the availability of alternative schools within the locality resulted in the

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closure of the school in 2007. The amended proposal has introduced SP3 Tourism as a land use for Peat Island. “This change provides opportunity for the future development of the site with a view towards tourism that will enable the preservation of the historical significance of the island,” the report said. A private recreation zone has also been introduced to the proposal to enable the development of a marina. “This use supports a recreational and tourism approach to the longterm use of the site. The number of dwellings included in the proposal has also been reduced from between 400 and 500 down to 268, and the proposed building height has been reduced from 17 metres to 12 metres. The mix of dwellings proposed has changed to approximately 82 low density, 22 town houses and 164 apartments. The amount of land dedicated to national park has been increased from 2.6 hectares to 11.3 hectares. Land made available for publicly accessible open space has gone from 2.6 hectares to 10 hectares. Land currently used on the side of the M1 by RMS and Ambulance

Services is proposed to be redeveloped for a convenience store-service station for both local and M1 business. “The Mooney Mooney locality is typical of many isolated communities where the current level of development and hence population is insufficient to support a basic level of service provision. “The rezoning of the redundant Hospital zoned land provides an opportunity to generate a population level that can support an increased range of services. “The provision of the business zoned land is an important component of the provision of services to the local community. “The planning and design provisions for this land will need to be carefully crafted to ensure the needs of all potential users are satisfied,” the report to the Administrator said. It said a number of matters would require further studies after the Gateway Determination: a detailed community needs assessment; a master plan for the sensitive coastal location land; and, a conservation management plan Agenda item 2,2, Mar 22, 2017 Central Coast Council ordinary meeting

Well-known and long-standing local businesses have been exiting the once fully tenanted centre for years. Henry Kendall Family Bistro and Tavern, West Gosford Optical and the Chinese restaurant were the first to go. In the past year, the outflow of tenants has become torrential including the fish and chips shop, the Fruit Spot, West Gosford Bake House, a remedial massage business, the West Gosford Newsagents, dry cleaners, True Blue Quality Meats butcher shop, the hair dressers, chicken shop and café, the Commonwealth Bank and Bakers Delight. The businesses remaining consist of Coles, Michele’s Patisserie, Chemsave, Australia Post, Super Dollar, J&P Noodle Bar, Duncan’s Barber, Free Choice Tobacco, Nick’s Pizza Pasta and Kebabs, 2ewes Boutique, Rajdhani Indian Restaurant and Vinnies. The shopping centre was built in 1987 and is owned under a joint venture between ISPT property trust, which owns 75 per cent and Coles, who bought 25 per cent in 2012 for $28.5 million. The emptying out of the centre has sparked fears of potential redevelopment on the site, which is B2 Local Centre zoned, as per the 2014 Gosford Local Environmental Plan, which

allows mixed use development, but has no current development applications submitted with Central Coast Council. A JLL centre management spokesperson said West Gosford Shopping Centre owners ISPT and Coles were exploring options to reconfigure the centre to enhance its offer and convenience for local shoppers, particularly after the upgrade and widening of Brisbane Water Dve. Current tenants with expiring leases who wish to remain at the centre have been offered shorter-term leases, which centre management have said is due to a current “planning phase” and to offer “a level of flexibility. “West Gosford is a great community and we are fortunate to have very loyal and longstanding customers. “In determining the proposed mix of the centre, we will be guided by community research and feedback. “A revitalised centre, anchored by a Coles supermarket, will provide an exciting new, convenient facility for the community and create local construction and trade employment during the building and fitting out of the Centre. “We also believe it will boost retail employment locally. “While tenants are encouraged to continue trading alongside Coles and Liquorland at the centre for as long as possible, some have found longer-term opportunities elsewhere and have elected to leave,” a JLL spokesperson said. Media Statement, Mar 15, 2017 West Gosford Shopping Centre Management, JLL Jarrod Melmeth, journalist

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PAGE 14 MARCH 23, 2017

NEWS

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

March in March aims Labor preselection for to encourage governments Federal Election has upset to act in the people’s many party members best interest he 2019 preselection for the Federal Seat of Robertson has already caused a stir within the Labor Party.

Ms Anne Charlton was recently announced as Labor’s candidate for the next federal election in Roberston, without a local branch preselection vote. It is understood that the Federal Parliamentary Leader of the Labor Party, Opposition Leader, Mr Bill Shorten, has endorsed Ms Charlton as the right person to stand for Robertson in the next national election. It is no secret that Ms Charlton’s candidacy has angered fellow Labor politician and 2016 preselection rival, Ms Belinda Neal. Ms Neal has lodged an appeal with the Australian Labor Party’s National Appeals Tribunal into the denial of a rank-and-file

preselection in the Seat of Robertson. Ms Neal’s husband and former Labor Party Minister for the Central Coast, Mr John Della Bosca, said he welcomed the decision of the National Secretary of the ALP to conduct the hearing. “The decision and vote of the National Executive was undemocratic and failed to take into account the rights of Central Coast people to have a say about the selection of their candidate,” Mr Della Bosca said. “The National Executive decision and ballot denied Central Coast people a vote without any consultation and in breach of party rules,” he said. “In the coming weeks, the National Appeals Tribunal of the ALP will hear the case for a democratic local preselection where Central Coast locals get a say in the choice of candidate for Robertson.

“Until the appeal is resolved, the endorsement of Anne Charlton as the ALP Robertson candidate is effectively void.” However, sources from within the ALP, whilst acknowledging that the appeal had been lodged, denied that Ms Charlton’s preselection was void as a result. They said Ms Charlton was the Labor candidate for the seat of Robertson and her endorsement remained. Ms Neal has been accused of being a “sour grape” after Ms Charlton won the pre-selection for the seat of Robertson in the 2016 Federal election, which was lost to incumbent Member, Ms Lucy Wicks. Media release, Mar 15, 2017 John Della Bosca, former Labor MP Interview, Mar 17, 2017 Australian Labor Party sources Jarrod Melmeth, journalist

arch in March Central Coast takes place on Saturday, March 25, in Gosford, with the aim of achieving the best possible government for all of Australia.

March in March 2017 is an independent, national protest being held in various locations across Australia, organised by independent members of the public devoted to total transparency. Along with 27,000-plus supporters from Facebook, the group will march in peaceful protest in an appeal to government officials, elected or nonelected, and to political parties to act purely in the interest of good, fair and just government. A Facebook post from March Australia Central Coast said “We are standing up across the country to let them know that we are sick

and tired of the rot, the sell-offs, the attacks on our vulnerable people, our environment, and everything positive that has taken decades to build. “Australians united for a better Government is a unified call for decency, accountability and transparency from and within all levels of Government in Australia.” March Australia believes the hasty and heavy-handed approach by the Federal, State and Local Governments has resulted in this call for action and change becoming increasingly imminent and necessary. They also believe the number of issues of concern to people has also expanded and that Australians are no longer willing to sit back and accept that there is nothing that can be done. March in March does not restrict the collective goal to a limited list or set of concerns, but instead encourages supporters to march for the issues important to them

under the collective sentiment of “Australians united for a better Government”. The grassroots campaign believes that the March in March allows people from all walks of life the hope of giving Australia a voice beyond the ballot-box, therefore participation by any and all peaceful supporters of the cause is welcome and encouraged. The event will occur on Saturday, March 25, at Carawah Reserve, Gosford, at 10:30am where they will gather to march across the Brian McGowan Bridge to the Gosford Waterfront. Speakers will include Dan Turner, Danielle Habib, David Abrahams, Michelle Cashman, Fr Rod Bower and Aunty Robyn Reid. Media release, Mar 20, 2017 Jeff Sundstoom, March Australia Facebook, Mar 19, 2017 March Australia Central Coast

ADVERTISEMENT MENT

DE B O’N EIL L & LABOR

LUCY WICKS MP

2010-2013

800 50,000

Federal Member for Robertson

S & T H E L I B E RA L

BOATS

ILLEGAL ARRIVALS

No plan for new jobs and a campaign to prevent 600 new jobs for Gosford Less than 300 premises connected to a more expensive nbn rollout No plan for a Central Coast Medical School and Medical Research Institute

BOATS FOR 800 DAYS

ILLEGAL ARRIVALS

Delivering 600 new jobs for Gosford CBD Over 27,000 homes and businesses across Robertson can now connect to the nbn Central Coast Medical School, bringing health and education innovation

No plan to fix local roads

Fixing dangerous and poor quality local roads where it’s needed

No money invested to address mobile phone black spots

Working with local communities to address mobile phone black spots

Labor’s record for Robertson speaks for itself. Only the Liberals are committed to delivering for Robertson. Authorised by Lucy Wicks MP, Level 3 Riverside Park, 69 Central Coast Highway, West Gosford NSW 2250

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

ONTHEBEAT PAGE 15 FEBRUARY 23, 2017

Target Action Group makes several arrests olice have continued an ongoing operation into the street-level supply of prohibited drugs across Brisbane Water Local Area Command.

On Friday, March 17, and Saturday, March 18, officers from the Brisbane Water Target Action Group (TAG) attended licensed premises across the command where drug activity was suspected. Over the two nights, police arrested eight people, resulting in 19 charges, in conjunction with 24 vehicle stops, with drivers subjected to a random drug and/ or alcohol tests. Five vehicles were searched. Included in the results was the arrest and charging of a 19-year-old Bluehaven man

Anyone with information about these incidents should call

Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: http://www1.police.nsw.gov.au/ Information provided will be treated in the strictest of confidence.

after police allegedly located 73 MDMA tablets when his car was searched at Erina. He was charged with supply prohibited drug and was granted bail to appear in Gosford Local Court on Tuesday, April 11. Brisbane Water Local Area Commander, Superintendent Danny Sullivan, said it was

disappointing to see the impact that illicit drugs had on the local community, with young lives often the most at risk. “Brisbane Water Local Area Command officers will continue to arrest people supplying prohibited drugs in this command,” he said “The safety and well-being of people in this community is our number one priority and we will continue to run operations such as these to target drug activity. “Most importantly, every piece of information you provide can help solve crimes and reduce drug supply – so if you know something, say something, by calling Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000,” he said. Media release, Mar 19, 2017 NSW Police Media

P Driver caught with high range alcohol level t 1am on Friday, March 10, police were attending Karalta Rd, Erina, in relation to a separate incident, when they saw a 26 year old male get into a White Ford Ranger and drive away.

Police stopped the vehicle and the male produced a P2 drivers’ licence. He was breath tested, which gave a positive reading. The male was arrested and taken to Gosford Police Station,

where a breath analysis gave the reading 0.174. The male’s licence was immediately suspended and he was charged with High Range Prescribed Concentration of Alcohol. Media release, Mar 10, 2017 NSW Police Media

Intoxicated female would not take no for an answer round 11pm, Thursday, March 9, police were called to a licensed premises in Gosford by a female who wanted to report staff for rudeness.

On investigation, it turned out that the female had been refused entry by the staff for her intoxication. Police issued a direction for the female to leave the licensed

premises, which she complied with. Once police completed their inquiries, they walked from the licensed premises to their vehicle. They then witnessed the female walk back and enter the location she had been directed to leave. Police spoke to the female and she became aggressive, saying among other things, "I'm not

going anywhere". The female was arrested and placed in handcuffs before being taken to the Gosford Police Station. She was issued with a criminal infringement notice for 'Excluded Person Re-enter Licensed Premises'. Media release, Mar 10, 2017 NSW Police Media

Other Regional News - In brief Coast Community News focuses on news specifically relating to post code areas 2250, 2251 & 2260. Given the advent of a Central Coast Council, following is

a summary of news articles published in the most recent edition of each of our sister Central Coast publications. The full articles and more, as well as all previously published editions, can be seen on line on our website

www.CentralCoastNews.net Copies of these other publications may be obtained from our offices in Gosford, by subscription, or from a myriad of locations in the areas covered by each publication.

Issue 112 March 14, 2017

Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

Wyong Regional Chronicle focuses on news specifically relating to post code areas 2258, 2259, 2261, 2262, & 2263.

Wallarah 2 gets draft consent but conditions could make it unviable

Gosford books are history: new Council is ‘safe, stable and sustainable’

Council to build its own aviation hangar at Central Coast Airport

The Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) has issued draft development consent for the Wallarah 2 Coal Project.

CEO of the Central Coast Council, Mr Rob Noble, has reassured Central Coast ratepayers that the new Council is “safe, ﬁnancially stable and sustainable” following a forum ...

Central Coast Council has lodged a $2.5 million development application to build an aviation hangar at its Warnervale airport.

Back to the future with coal mines and power stations

$50 million for food research at Campus

Community concerned over possible ash dam pollution

Mr Mike Campbell, former Secretary of Coastal Residents Investigating Power Stations (1985) and former President of Wyong Ratepayers Association, has given an overview of the history of power stations...

Regional Development Australia Central Coast CEO, Mr John Mouland, has welcomed the announcement that the Food Agility Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) will be funded with $50 million over ten...

Toukley-based Northern Lakes Disability Tourism Precinct (NLDTP) has asked the NSW Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for answers to questions about ash dams within the Vales Point Power Station.

Delta Electricity strongly rejects any pollution claims

Move rail facility to pay for Link Road

Compasas Housing to deliver 600 new dwellings for Social and Affordable Housing Fund Delta Electricity has strongly The State Government could Leading community rejected the claims by move its proposed inter-city housing provider, Compass Environmental Justice rail maintenance facility from Housing, has been awarded Australia about the need for the troubled Kangy Angy site a major contract from the an EPA investigation into air to Warnervale as a way to fund NSW Government to help pollution from Vales Point the proposed Link Road from boost social and affordable Power Station Watanobbi... housing, including ... The full articles and more can be seen on our website www.CentralCoastNews.net

e Frkeeone! Ta

Edition 415

20 March 2017

Peninsula News focuses on news specifically relating to post code areas 2256 & 2257.

Liberals ‘knew of rail costs’ before election, Tesch claims

Gosford accounts referred for external audit

Jilly Pilon is Liberal candidate

The Liberal Government was aware of the escalating costs of the Woy Woy railway underpass before the 2015 State election, according documents secured by the Labor Party under Freedom g of Information legislation.

The ﬁnancial reports for the former Gosford Council, for the period from July 1, 2015, to May 12, 2016, have been referred for an external audit following an Extraordinary Central Coast Council meeting on March 13.

Ms Jilly Pilon has been announced as the Liberal candidate for the by-election in the Seat of Gosford.

Citizen of the Year stands for Christian party

Holstein will not run in by-election

Gosford Council assets reduced by $1.4 billion

Gosford City’s 2016 Citizen of the Year, Mr Andrew Church, will stand as the Christian Democratic Party’s candidate in the Gosford byelection on April 8.

Former Member for Gosford, Mr Chris Holstein, has declared he will not run as a candidate in the Gosford byelection.

The former Gosford Council’s draft ﬁnancial accounts for 2015-16 have included a $1.389 billion reduction in the value of its assets to around $9.6 billion.

Teenager airlifted after crash

Chamber disappointed with Liberal selection

A teenage driver was airlifted to Sydney’s Royal North Shore Hospital in a critical condition after crashing his car in Woy Woy.

The Peninsula Chamber of Commerce has expressed its disappointment that the Liberal Party has not preselected a local resident for the Gosford by-election.

Taskforce asks for infrastructure commitments Mr Chris Holstein and the Central Coast Taskforce are calling on April by-election candidates Ms Jilly Pilon and Ms Liesl Tesch to give their commitment to several infrastructure issues.

The full articles and more can be seen on line on our website www.CentralCoastNews.net They can also be seen on www.PeninsulaNews.info

PAGE 16 MARCH 23, 2017

FORUM

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

Concerns remain over future of former school site

, along with many others, remain concerned about the future of the land around the old Gosford School site and the threat of it being sold off for private profit. I am also concerned DOMA, the private company building the tax office, has been using the school site to store equipment, machinery and their cars. Did DOMA make any payments to state departments for the use of the land? Most of the equipment has been moved recently, but they now have fenced it off and are using part of Leagues Club Park, which is Crown Land. Lucy Wicks insisted that the ATO was only using a small portion of the former school site and said she did not have any preference for where the Performing Art Centre should go, but the school was removed by a NSW Labor Government for a Performing Arts Centre and Entertainment Precinct to be built on the site. Then a Liberal State Government made the school site and around the water a State Significant Site and rezoned the school site in a 24 hour State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP). My mind boggles at a planning POLICY that only lasts 24 hours; nevertheless, I, as an interested resident, did not understand this, and it was promoted as a great thing. The relocation of the school was rushed and the demolition of the school started as soon as the children moved. Children moved into a new school before it was completed and some of the things promised still have not been delivered. There are sound and water issues on the new school site. Two 10,000-plus signature petitions were delivered to State Parliament, first against the closure of the school and the second opposed massive overdevelopment of Gosford Waterfront (Lend Lease proposal). There are numerous Facebook pages which comment on the Waterfront and School site and there have been many newspaper articles in local papers as well as talk back on local ABC radio.

FORUM Letters to the editor should be sent to:

COAST COMMUNITY

NEWS PO Box 1056 Gosford 2250 or editorial@centralcoastnews.net

See Page 2 for contribution conditions Residents have written and spoken numerous times to local politicians and Council. The last GM/CEO of Council was not even aware the school site was intended for the PAC Precinct. There have been numerous gatherings and protests on Leagues Club Park objecting to the ATO on the school site, including a meeting with David Shoebridge (Greens member NSW upper house). The school site has been wrapped in red fabric twice, yes, I believe more than 200 metres of fabric. The date palms were also wrapped in red fabric (on Leagues Club Park) during Easter 2016. The land and Environment Court approved the ATO building even though they were one car park short of what was required and some of the parking was on a paper road which is an extension of Baker St. There are council documents which show Baker St was only ever a paper road and it was to be added to Leagues Club Park once Dane Dve was built. At each JRPP meeting, residents have raised the issue of Crown Land as well as the school being ‘Dedicated for education purposes’ and the status of the paper road, Baker St (South). The JRPP’s decisions on the school site have not been unanimous and the Chair, Mr Fielding, even made comments about the Masterplan and if we had of had it implemented, we would have had a better outcome. At a Confidential Stakeholders meeting regarding the location of the PAC (now referred to by council as a Regional Performing Art and Conference Centre), the Leagues Club Park was their pick

of six possible locations. A number of us requested the school site to continue to be included as a potential site, and at the council meeting, where the Administrator had a confidential chat with himself, he agreed it would be the second choice of location. The remanding two-thirds of the school site had an Expression of Interest put out to tender. This is now closed and it is not believed there were many interested parties. The Finance building is on this two-thirds of the site. There was a recent rumour the school site was sold, yet it is understood it has not been sold yet. I believe the NSW Government wants us to stop focusing on the school site but we will not. Flood lights and a security camera had to be removed for the Baker St Extension to go in and as far as I can find out, there was never any advertisement of the intended work to be done. If it was a paper road, why did they put this infrastructure in the middle of the road? Ninety-degree parking on the new section of Baker St was a condition of the approval, yet in the Our City Our Destiny master plan, it was to be a boulevard. In the Confidential Stakeholders’ meeting (no longer confidential due to the announcement being made), Council did not want to discuss the school site because of ‘commercial in confidence’, but the sale has not been finalised and a number of people and groups have written to the council asking them to negotiate with the state government for the purchase of the remainder of the site. What was promised in the Our City Our Destiny Masterplan as a tree lined boulevard linking the CBD to the waterfront, has now become a service lane with multiple uncoordinated entries to car-parks and access for heavy service vehicles such as garbage trucks, hardly a safe pedestrian passage, and certainly not an attractive linkage between supposedly activated areas. Email, Mar 20, 2017 Joy Cooper, Green Point

If you can’t wait to get your copy read it online! If you lent yours to someone that won’t give it back - read it online! Missed an edi on or want to re-read something - read it online! Simply go to www.centralcoastnews.net They’re all there and it’s FREE Want to share something you ﬁnd really interes ng, see www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Pot calls the kettle black over candidate selection process wish to respond to the article ‘ALP candidate selection undemocratic’ in Coast Community News Issue 153, published on March 9.

As a former ALP candidate for the NSW Seat of Gosford, I must criticise former NSW ALP General Secretary, Mr John Della Bosca, over his recent public statement about the endorsement of Ms Anne Charlton as ALP candidate for Robertson. Della Bosca accused the ALP of engaging in a “grubby, undemocratic factional deal” but he has done the same. Back in 1991, Della Bosca used his influence as the ALP NSW General Secretary to deny local

FORUM branch members a rank and file preselection to select their own candidate in a blatant attempt to favour one of his own “stooges”. Della Bosca repeatedly ignored letters from Central Coast ALP branches requesting a preselection. In the end, and having left it too late for anyone to mount an effective campaign, he ended up hand-picking a candidate to represent the ALP. Della Bosca’s actions created unnecessary division amongst local ALP members at the time who had wanted a preselection. This current matter is one for the ALP to resolve internally. Uncalled-for public statements

such as those of Della Bosca make you wonder if there was a hidden agenda behind Della Bosca’s public attack. What should have been an internal matter for the ALP, became a public personal attack on Anne Charlton. Ms Charlton, despite his comments, ran a good campaign for Robertson in the federal election last year, but was defeated on the day. There are always more losers than winners in any State or Federal election, but to lose doesn’t mean personal failure, just disappointment. Email, Mar 19, 2017 Dr Stephen Goodwin, Mangrove Mountain

Not impressed with former councillors’ handling of finance matters was reading the Sydney Morning Herald, dated March 13.

The heading on the front page stated “Council merger mayhem as Administrator uncovers $1.4 billion dollar hole”. This is to do with the former Gosford Council. In the same paper (page 7), one former Gosford Councillor, Ms Vicki Scott, said she would be interested in what was said at the public meeting, and she also said ‘My biggest issue with the council was that there was not enough reporting with the council that came back to us. That is the Councillors’ fault. In my opinion, as a ratepayer, the Councillors have failed in their duties. If they did not receive reports, they had many options.

FORUM Option one: put the CEO on notice, and tell him that all reports will be tabled and signed by him in 14 days. All reports will be sent to each councillor by registered mail, seven-days before the next council meeting. Option two: if the reports have not been tabled at said meeting, the CEO should be told to take leave (full pay) and during this time opt for an investigation. Option three: The CEO should sign a document that states that he will not make contact with his staff. For the investigation, the councillors should have hired on behalf of Gosford Council, an independent forensic accountant, as well as an independent actuary. When the councillors receive

both reports, they can make a decision on the future of the CEO. But the councillors did not follow any of those options. I noted with interest the Central Coast Express Advocate (March 15) stated that the shock findings prompted the Central Coast Council to immediately refer the matter to external agencies, including the NSW Auditor General and the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) for further investigation. And while the investigation takes place, they should also look at what ratepayers money was invested with Lehman brothers, and what deposits were made, total money and what return, and show the ratepayers an audit report. Letter, Mar 15, 2017 Vic Wulf, Gosford

The subdivision was first of three lots in earliest days, then later a subdivision of seven lots with a road. You can see this on early Parish maps. When the school took over it consolidated the entire site. In recent years, Doma and CCRDC approached Council to subdivide the boundary between the School of Arts and the police paddock, by extending the boundary further south to arrange

FORUM for a doubling of the size of this block. I can’t speak to the issue of why the original site boundaries were reinvoked in this case and not the original subdivision boundary to the south. There were issues around how the private road was to be treated, and whether the bottom edge of the Leagues Club Park Crown Land site was part absorbed into the redrawn boundaries for the reopening of lower Baker St. The road along the subdivision area had never been a formed road, rather a narrower dirt track. The seven subdivisions were never successfully sold due to the land being not really suitable. If Crown Land is to be affected, there would be specific provisions for how this should proceed, but

they do not appear to have been embodied in current CCRDC documents and plans for the site, nor in Council mapping. I understand that apart from the Doma extended site, the State Government proposed to sell the rest of the site as a whole. But in the first articulation of plans for the school site, the Performing Arts Centre was to be built on the far end. In the proposal, concept design only we are told, in the second iteration of CCRDC proposals, (which ignored questions of Crown Land title as well), the south of the site was allocated for a top-class hotel (displacing the PAC) and the Crown Land across Vaughan Rd for a conference centre, the PAC to go on the Crown Land of Poppy Park.

egarding the Performing Arts Centre being built on a reclaimed shale riverbed (Coast Community News, March 9), Ms Kay Williams’ comments on Sea Level Rise (SLR) and traffic flow are supported.

The Gosford waterfront from the high tide mark to Mann St is at risk from sea level rise, flood inundation and king tides. Any development in this area is at risk. Developments proposed for the low-lying areas of the waterfront will need to be designed so that they don’t create future costs

t’s amazing what one finds about the Central Coast by reading the Sydney papers.

am writing to your newspaper in the hope that Council will do its duty and clean the area up around the overbridge at Point Clare.

We on the western side of Brisbane Water have been denied all forms of repair - no kerb and gutters or footpaths for children to go to the local school. I am starting to wonder where our money is going, I suppose it’s going to the overpaid public servants. I ask the Administrator how much is in the coffers? Our city looks like a garbage

FORUM Letters to the editor should be sent to:

COAST COMMUNITY

NEWS PO Box 1056 Gosford 2250 or editorial@centralcoastnews.net

See Page 2 for contribution conditions dump when you go down Mann St with empty buildings, graffiti everywhere and at some stage smells.

Since drugs have come to the Coast, from Patonga to the northern parts of Wyong, the police are overstretched and need another 30 to 40 officers in which the public have great sympathy, and the people have had just about enough. It’s the State Government who needs to overhaul the Summary Offences Act and bring back the no drinking in the streets legislation. Let’s all work together for a better Central Coast and rid ourselves of drunken druggies. Email, Mar 10, 2017 Robert Findley, Point Clare

MARCH 23, 2017

FORUM and risks to the community, nor expose Council (GCC) to legal or insurance risks, and will need to disclose whether the project is a short, medium, or long-term asset. Sea level rise planning levels were adopted by Gosford City Councillors, not climate scientists or engineers. The matter of a scientificallybased SLR level is the first and main issue to be resolved, everything else is secondary. As recently as December 2016, the Department of Planning and Environment had a different SLR

policy to GCC. Ian Reynolds has failed to disclose the Central Coast Council’s adopted SLR level. What will be the cost of the building, and the infrastructure upgrade, including parking, Dane Dr engineering and sea level rise adaptation projects? There will need to be another site reserved for a larger avenue as the population of Gosford and the Central Coast expands. Construction of the PAC will involve an assembly method that enables deconstruction for ongoing use. Letter, Mar 13, 2017, Norman Harris, Umina

A revelation at unadvertised forum

Email, Mar 13, 2016 Kay Williams, Pearl Beach

Western side of Brisbane Water forgotten by Council

FORUM PAGE 17

Sea Level Rise a major factor for waterfront construction

Former school site has a confusing history he school site was originally three parcels of land: the Police pound and Sergeant’s residence in the middle, the School of Arts site taken over by the school when it moved to the site, and a very unsuccessful subdivision on muddy flats to the south.

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

For example, in Monday’s Sydney Morning Herald, we read that after the merger of Gosford and Wyong Councils

FORUM (against our wishes), over a billion dollars of assets were identified as being over-valued, as well as inadequate security on the accounts themselves. Apparently Central Coast Council (whoever they are) held

a residents’ forum on Monday, but it’s funny that I never heard about it. Who can trust governments these days? Email, Mar 14, 2017 Dave Horsfall, Gosford

Candidates asked to declare their position on important legislation he successful candidate in the upcoming Gosford Byelection will be voting on a range of issues affecting our community.

One will occur later this year when a cross-party parliamentary working group will present a bill to legalise voluntary assisted dying for people who are terminally ill.

FORUM I am concerned to know the position of all candidates on this important issue, as it will influence my vote. For several decades, a large majority of Australians have supported the need for assisted dying law reform, but to date their views have not been reflected by

politicians voting in several State Parliaments. This year, NSW MPs will have the opportunity to finally change the law to give people suffering a terminal illness the right to choose a dignified and peaceful death. How will our Gosford member vote? Email, Mar 16, 2017 Beverley Symons, East Gosford

VOTE [1] New friends New adventures

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ANDREW CHURCH 1) Reopen Services NSW (RMS/RTA) in Woy Woy. 2) Close the level crossing & build the underpass. 3) Build the Performing Arts Centre in Gosford.

The Conservative Alternative Authorised by Ian Smith, CDP 1 Wentworth St Parramatta 2150

PAGE 18 MARCH 23, 2017

HEALTH

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

Gosford Hospital emergency department figures improve

Ageing healthy talk at Ecovillage

he latest report out by the Bureau of Health Information (BHI) shows “significant improvement” in emergency department and elective surgery wait times at Gosford Hospital, according to NSW Minister for Health Mr Brad Hazzard.

A healthy aging talk will be part of the next Narara Ecovillage open day

n ageing healthy talk will be held as part of the next Narara Ecovillage open day on Saturday, March 25.

Dr Catherine Rickwood and Dr Karen Bridgman, of Three Sisters Research, will talk on Ageing Healthily and Wellness, including the role of complementary medicine. According to the doctors, onethird of Australia’s population is over 50 years of age, of which 80 per cent are between 50 and 74 years old. Baby boomers are better educated, more technologically literate, fitter, and healthier than previous generations. Baby boomers spend more per

head than younger people. There is greater diversity of attitudes, beliefs, behaviours, and lifestyles amongst people over 50 than there is with those under this age. Those over 50 have a sense of freedom, confidence, and an overall sense of happiness and wellbeing compared with their younger counterparts. Dr Rickwood is Founder and CEO of Three Sisters Research. She is an Australian expert on the ageing population and the over 50s, and a member of the Australian Association of Gerontology, who is committed to being at the forefront of knowledge by attending leading Australian conferences and continuously being involved in

original research in the area of ageing. Dr Bridgman comes from a Nuclear Medicine background and has worked clinically as a Naturopath for over 30 years in a holistic medical practice and a private pathology laboratory. She was one of the first Naturopaths to qualify for a PhD and lectured at the University of Sydney (Masters of Herbal Medicine), and UWS in Nutrition and Clinical Studies. She has been on University Academic Review Committees for Complementary Medicine education. Newsletter, Mar 20, 2017 Narara Eco Living Network

Mr Hazzard congratulated staff in the Central Coast Local Health District, who, he said, performed extremely well for the OctoberDecember quarter in 2016, according to the BHI Hospital Quarterly report. “More people are coming through the doors of our world-class public hospitals than ever before and even with that challenge, our Central Coast hospitals are delivering firstclass care,” said Mr Hazzard. “A big thank you to the staff at Gosford. “I’ve recently sat with them and they are amazing, dedicated people – and the latest statistics emphasise their incredible work.” According to the report, the median time triage two (emergency) patients waited to start treatment in Gosford Hospital’s emergency department was six minutes, unchanged since the same period in 2013. It is faster than the median emergency department wait time in NSW, which is eight minutes this quarter. The report found reduced waiting times for triage three (urgent), triage four (semi-urgent) and triage five (non-urgent) patients at

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Trevor Green to participate Free veterans’ legal advice in Variety Bash 2017 service in Gosford

egal Aid NSW will be bringing its veterans’ advice service to Gosford on Friday, March 31, to provide free legal advice to current and former members of the defence forces and their dependents. “We regularly see veterans who have suffered significant injuries as a result of their service and do not realise that they are entitled to claim a pension, or are entitled to more than they realise,” Legal Aid NSW senior advocate Gerard McAleese said. “Legal Aid NSW can advise them about what claims they may have, and how they can progress those claims,” Mr McAleese said. “Some veterans are reluctant to claim their entitlements, but

Mr Trevor Green (right) and Mr David Spinks (left) during the 2016 Bash

r Trevor Green, of Kincumber, has signed up to drive more than 400km a day, over 11 days, through outback Australia, as part of the 2017 Variety Brydens Lawyers B to B Bash to help raise money for kids who are sick, disadvantaged or have special needs.

Mr Green will be driving car number 17, which is a 1978 Mercedes-Benz 450SEL, with his friend, Mr Martin Driene. The Variety Bash 2017 will see more than 100 cars take part, driving from Belmore, Sydney,

through Wellington, Bourke, Hungerford, Thargomindah, Adavale, Blackall, Winton, Mount Isa, Avon Downs, Tennant Creek, Spell Paddock Bore, Katherine, Jabiru and finishing at Buffalo Creek, NT. To help raise funds for Variety, Mr Green, will be hosting a movie night at Avoca Beach Picture Theatre on April 6. Film, Queen of Katwe, will screen from 6:30pm, followed by a raffle with multiple prizes. Tickets are $25 and available on the theatre’s website. Variety, the Children’s Charity, NSW Motoring Events Manager, Mr Stuart Telfer, said the Variety

Bashers are the heart and soul of this iconic event who contribute to changing the lives of Australian children and their families. “The Variety Bashers are mates, colleagues or family sharing an adventure by driving through outback Australia over 10 days, all for a good cause,” said Mr Telfer. “The Bashers work incredibly hard throughout the year to raise more than $2 million to help children in need overcome some of the challenges in their lives and reach their full potential. “The Variety B2B Bash is their reward for all their hard work.” The original Australian charity motoring event, inspired by Dick Smith in 1985, will visit schools along the way, entertain the kids, and donate educational, health and mobility equipment to the schools. Each Bash team raises a minimum of $8,500 to take part in the Bash. Media release, Mar 22, 2017 Alison Buckley, Variety

forms and questionnaires, and help lodging pension claims,” Mr McAleese said. “The service is open to veterans who served at home, in peacekeeping forces, or in armed conflict at any time, whatever their age.” “In recent months, our service has helped World War II diggers, Vietnam War vets and their partners, and ex-servicemen and women who have served more recently in the Middle East.” The free veterans’ advice service will be held at Legal Aid NSW, 100 Donnison Street, Gosford, on Friday, March 31, from 9:00am to 5:00pm and appointments are necessary. Media release, Mar 21, 2017 Sophie Tarr, Legal Aid NSW

Australian Spirit project to be exhibited at Regional Gallery he Australian Spirit project is a multidisciplinary c o l l a b o r a t i o n commemorating the ANZAC and WWI Centenaries.

The project matches veterans with a poet and a visual artist to record the veteran’s story. It has run for three years and included an exhibition of the visual works combined with the poems. Each year the visual and written works are combined in a magazine and at the conclusion of the third year, 2017, all works will be published in a commemorative book. This year’s exhibition will be held from March 30 to April 2

The Fletcher Gallery

THERHYTHMHUT.COM.AU

we all owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to veterans who served their country,” he said. “Ensuring they have access to the compensation they are entitled to is one small way the community can recognise their service.” Legal Aid NSW’s specialist Veterans’ Advocacy Service can give advice about rights and entitlements for pensions, disability claims and war widow claims and other benefits under the Veterans’ Entitlements Act and Military Compensation Scheme. The service can also help veterans in their dealings with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, and can lodge appeals at the Veterans’ Review Board or the Administrative Appeals Tribunal. “We also offer veterans practical help, including help completing

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in the Community Gallery at the Gosford Regional Gallery. The works are a result of collaborations between local Returned Service Personnel, visual artists, poets, and photographers. The Exhibition is inspired by the veterans’ stories, memories

and recollections, and raises awareness of the many sacrifices made by both veterans and their families during and after service. Media release, Mar 16, 2017 Leasha Craig, Art Studios Cooperative

The Waterwatch program, which has been established on the Central Coast since 1997, is about community and school groups monitoring water quality in local rivers, creeks and estuaries. Ms Jane Smith, Chief Executive Officer of the Community Environment Network (CEN) said, “We have been fortunate that the Waterwatch program has been supported by Greater Sydney Local Land Services through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Programme, however, this funding is now drawing to an end with no current ongoing commitment. “In addition, Council’s Water

Authority, now called Central Coast Council Water and Sewer, previously provided some sponsorship, however this ended in 2013. “Waterwatch is all about communities caring for catchments,” Ms Smith said. “Waterwatch volunteers currently monitor between 60 and 70 sites. “Our volunteers are the eyes of the catchment and contribute to keeping our Central Coast environment healthy.” The Waterwatch program is asking local businesses, community groups and individuals to give a little to continue this work. “Over the last 20 years, Waterwatch volunteers, including school students, have identified water quality problems that we have then worked with local authorities to fix. “This has included pollution events in Nunns Creek at Erina.

OUT&ABOUT PAGE 23 MARCH 23, 2017

Glenworth Valley Events Centre officially opened

Waterwatch funding drying up he Central Coast Waterwatch program is calling upon businesses and community champions to give a little to the work of volunteers and schools across the Central Coast.

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

“In addition, the Waterwatch program educates schools and the wider community on catchment management. “We run many awareness raising events including catchment crawls, Breakfast with the Birds, stalls and workshops,” Ms Smith said. CEN is committed to allocating some of their limited resources to continue the Waterwatch program into the future, however, an important component of the program is water quality monitoring equipment. “Waterwatch kits range from $500 to $3,000 each which are beyond our current resources. “Donations to the CEN will go towards Waterwatch equipment, training and ongoing support of Waterwatch volunteers. Media release, Mar 20, 2017 Jane Smith, Community Environment Network

Mr Scot MacDonald, Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast cuts the ribbon on the new Valley Events Centre

he new $4 million Valley Events Centre at Glenworth Valley outdoor adventures has been officially opened.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald, opened the new centre on behalf of NSW Minister for Tourism, Mr Adam Marshall. Joined by Mr Bart Lawler, whose family own and operate Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures, Mr MacDonald cut the ribbon on the new all-weather multipurpose

venue. Also in attendance were Mr Adam Crouch, Member for the State Seat of Terrigal and Ms Jilly Pilon, Liberal candidate for Seat of Gosford By-election. The centre was constructed with the assistance of a $500 000 grant from Destination NSW under the Regional Visitor Economy Fund. “This venue provides capacity for 400 people and opens entire new markets for this business. “Glenworth Valley can now

host weddings, conferences and everything in between. “The new building is a credit to the Lawler family and their staff and it will be an iconic destination for the Central Coast” Mr MacDonald said. “This new facility will help draw in visitors with the goal of doubling tourism expenditure by 2020,” he said. Media release, Mar 22, 2017 Kit Hale, office of Scot MacDonald

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PAGE 24 MARCH 23, 2017 OUT&ABOUT

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Classic Blues night coming up at Hotel Gosford

Stephanie Foster is Terrigal Electorate’s Local Woman of the Year tate Member for Terrigal, Mr Adam Crouch, congratulated the Terrigal Electorate’s Local Woman of the Year, Ms Stephanie Foster.

The announcement was made in front of 400 guests to celebrate and recognise winners at the NSW Women of the Year Awards held at the International Convention Centre, Sydney. “It’s wonderful to celebrate and acknowledge women who have gone above and beyond to

make a significant contribution to their community and society,” Mr Crouch said. “Stephanie has made an enormous contribution to our community with her work at the Central Coast Cancer Council supporting patients and their family members, so it was great to formally recognise that on International Women’s Day,” he said. NSW Premier, Ms Gladys Berejiklian, and Minister for Women, Ms Tanya Davies, presented awards to winners of

six individual categories at the event. “The Awards support the NSW Government’s commitment to building an equitable, inclusive and safe society where all women are valued and respected, can contribute meaningfully, and can enjoy the rights, freedoms and protections to which everyone in NSW is entitled,” Ms Davies said. Media release, Mar 9, 2017 Donna Golightly, office of Adam Crouch

Mark n the blues trio

luesAngels and the Mark n the Blues Trio will fly the flag on April Fools Day for the real old time acoustic blues.

The trio is Mark Bishop on guitars, Eric K Betts on blues harps and David Rowlands on washboard, possibly the hardest working blues players in Sydney. “Barely a week goes by we don’t see their banner fly at one or another of the latest inner city bars, or out west to Windsor and Katoomba, either solo, duo, or occasionally trio,” said Tom Flood from BluesAngels. “Mark is a veteran of the city music scene and anchorman of Mark n the Blues, perfecting his picking style with John Morris of Blues Preachers. “His song playlist is a rich history

of pre- and post-war blues with a few later maestros thrown in. “Canadian Eric is among the best vampers in Sydney, particularly when it comes to trad blues. “A Japanese translator and former financial analyst, he learned his later chops from Jim Conway, started performing with the Investment Buskers six years ago, and Mark n the Blues soon after. “Session drummerpercussionist David Rowlands came to fame in the 60s with hit band, The Unknown Blues. “Reformed in 2011, they played Byron Bluesfest and Dave got back into music after a long hiatus and a car accident. “While jazz fusion is his preference, he likes to create rhythms for all kinds of situations.

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“He joined Mark and Eric last year with his washboard. “BluesAngels, local champions of acoustic blues on the Coast, will be very pleased to finally get these three to Hotel Gosford. “They first met about two years ago at Hotel Blue in Katoomba and Tom tapped a few numbers washboarding with Mark and then harmonicist, Joe Berenguel, downstairs prior to a BluesAngels gig, and they met briefly again at The Tav Blues Party last year. “You can be certain this will be among the best nights of acoustic blues seen on the Coast with Mark n the Blues’ authentic sound and BluesAngels’ wide ranging blues and dues stylists. “The delicious bistro will be cooking until 8:30pm, coffee and cake at the bar until late. “Ditch the rain, ditch the heat, ditch the mozzies and catch a unique night of acoustic blues and dues, 1st Saturdays Hotel Gosford, April 1 from 7:00pm”, Mr Flood said. Entry is free.

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Terrigal Woman of Year Steph Foster with Minister Goward, Mr Adam Crouch and her family

St Pat’s Day adds levity to Bridge game entral Coast residents had the opportunity to have a laugh on St Patrick’s Day, by playing bridge at the Central Coast Leagues Club.

Bridge, a card game which can be competitive or social, allows residents to meet new people while keeping their brains active

and deterring that nasty threat of Alzheimer’s. The game allows residents to learn to talk strategically to their partner to arrive at the perfect contract for the cards you hold between you. The contract states the minimum number of tricks you will win. On Friday, pairs were given a number of shamrocks, one of

which they had to forfeit if they were defeated in their contract. This added a fun dimension to the day, especially when some pairs did not wait, but grabbed for their reward. Flyer, Mar 20, 2017 Wendy Mitchell, Central Coast Bridge Club

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

OUT&ABOUT PAGE 25 MARCH 23, 2017

Friendship Force extends friendships embers of the Central Coast Friendship Force Club travelled to Moreton, QLD, in late February for a week of home visits and camaraderie with the North Moreton Friendship Force Club.

Friendship Force is a non-profit, non-religious and non-political organisation that began in the 1970’s in the United States. The mission of Friendship Force is to accept people no matter their religion, race, creed, sexual persuasion or colour, and to spread peace and understanding across the world. The Friendship Force Central Coast is one of 360 clubs worldwide.

According to Central Coast Friendship Force’s Ms Cathie Stone, the Central Coast group was warmly welcomed and helped celebrate the 20th anniversary for the North Moreton Club at Scarborough, near the Brisbane River. There were members from 12 other Australian Friendship Force Clubs in attendance on the night. During the week, the group attended a tour of the infamous Boggo Rd Gaol, hosted by an former inmate. “This was so enlightening to hear about the conditions of the Gaol at the time of the riots and learn how this former inmate has since worked tirelessly for the rights of prisoners,” Ms Stone said. “Some of the other activities enjoyed, took place at the

Planetarium, a river cruise along the Brisbane River showcasing Southbank, and a hilarious game of Croquet at Woody Point and many other outings,” she added. The Central Coast Club is now preparing to home host and share the Central Coast’s delights with 14 members from the Salisbury and Sydney South Clubs. “It is always enjoyable to welcome strangers into your home and watch how during the week you become lifelong friends and often meet up again during another adventure at one of the other 360 Friendship Force Clubs internationally,” Ms Stone concluded. Media release, Mar 17, 2017 Cathie Stone, Friendship Force Central Coast

Dracula to appear at Laycock Street Theatre he critically acclaimed production Dracula is swooping into Laycock Street Theatre.

Bram Stoker’s gothic masterpiece will be at the Laycock Street Community Theatre on Tuesday and Wednesday March 28-29. Created and adapted by one of Australia’s leading contemporary theatre companies, Shake & Stir Theatre Co., this adaptation has already garnered stellar five-star reviews and attracted five Matilda

Award (Queensland Theatre) nominations including Best Mainstage Production. Group Leader of Connected Communities, Ms Julie Vaughan, said the new adaptation of Bram Stoker’s 1897 horror-classic promised to be every bit as tortured and charismatic as the novel. “This is a great opportunity to sink your teeth into what is an amazing story,” said Ms Vaughan. “Shake & Stir Theatre Co. are one of the country’s leading theatre companies and we have

proudly presented their previous touring productions of 1984, Wuthering Heights and Animal Farm. “It’s wonderful to host them once again at the Laycock Street Community Theatre in what will no doubt be a fantastic adaptation of this classic story,” she added. The show features simulated violence, sexual and supernatural themes, haze and strobe lighting. Media release, Mar 17, 2017 Central Coast Council Media

FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH

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April 1 - 7pm till 11pm

Nitro daredevils in Gosford irect from sell-out shows across the globe, one of the world’s greatest action sports shows, Travis Pastrana’s Nitro Circus Live, is returning to Central Coast Stadium, Gosford, on April 1.

Featured will be 30 of the world’s best extreme athletes in freestyle motocross, BMX, and skate, plus a host of ridiculous contraptions being launched 50 feet into the air by the crazy Nitro daredevils. Expect to see the world’s biggest and most dangerous stunts in a fully choreographed action sports theatrical spectacular.

More than 60 World Firsts were performed at the Nitro World Games in 2016, and you can expect to see the majority of them performed for the first time ever in Australia, on the Regional Rampage Tour. Website, Mar 20, 2017 Central Coast Stadium

Metal mariachi night at The Rhythm Hut

wo of the biggest acts to grace The Rhythm Hut in recent years, Tijuana Cartel and Kallidad will return to Gosford for a massive show on April 1. Tijuana Cartel are back on the Australian touring trail. Their newest album “Psychedelicatessen”, a trippedout Gonzo-style concept album, was highly acclaimed as one of the best releases of 2016, and the band are back to give audiences a further in-depth taste. Recent large performances at Falls and Woodford Festivals have cemented the band’s reputation as one of the most exciting live

dance acts touring Australia. Tijuana Cartel will be playing an extended dance set, featuring material from their entire catalogue. Special guests on the night are Kallidad. After a huge night of metal mariachi last month, Kallidad are back to support Tijuana Cartel. Kallidad combines flamenco, rock and mariachi music into an intoxicating instrumental mix. Together with the band’s infamous ‘Day of the Dead’ face paint, the result is a live spectacle that has been drawing audiences across Australia, Asia and Europe, including major festivals such as Splendour in the Grass, and

events as diverse as bush doofs, metal gigs and family folk picnics. Somehow, the three amigos have created a sound and energy that touches literally all demographics- whilst not compromising their sound. Kallidad released their second full length album ‘The Awakening’ in mid-2016, and have been touring extensively to support the release, which combines their trademark ‘thrash flamenco’ sound with branches stretching further into their roots in every direction. Media release, Mar 14, 2017 Lou Sawilejskij

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NOT FOR PROFIT ORGANISATIONS DIRECTORY

ARTS & CULTURE ART STUDIOS GALLERY & COOPERATIVE Artworks by members and local artists through solo and group exhibitions and community events. Classes available. 4339 3349 www.artstudioscooperative.org

CENTRAL COAST ART SOCIETY Lectures, demonstrations and discussion. Weekly paint-outs Tuesdays 4349 5860 for locations Workshops - 4363 1156 9.30am - 12.30pm 1st and 3rd Wed Social Meetings 1.30pm 4th Wed Gosford City Arts Centre. 4325 1420

CENTRAL COAST SUNDAY LUNCH BUNCH (Singles over 55) Luncheons 1st and 3rd Sundays monthly at various licensed venues 43321 695 (after 2pm)

GOSFORD NORTH PROBUS CLUB Meets 4th Tuesday at the Grange Hotel Monthy meeting 4th Tuesday Grange Hotel 10am 43225560

NORTHERN SETTLEMENT SERVICES - VOLUNTEERS Volunteers needed for friendly visits to the elderly in nursing homes. People with a second language encouraged to apply. Training support provided 4334 3877

publicity@artcentralcoast.asn.au

cvscc@nsservices.com.au

CENTRAL COAST HANDWEAVERS, SPINNERS AND TEXTILE ARTS GUILD

PROBUS CLUB OF AVOCA 10.15am 3rd Mon Avoca Beach Bowling Club 4382 3372

Spinning and weaving, patchwork www.probussouthpacific.org/ and quilting, felting and other microsites/avocabeach fibre and fabric crafts, community quilting bees - Day and Night Groups SENIORS COMPUTER 4325 4743 CLUB CENTRAL COAST INC. www.cottagecrafts.net.au Classes Mon to Fri for over 50 Basics: Mon , Tues and Thurs FELLOWSHIP OF 10am to 12noon Different programs every day, AUSTRALIAN WRITERS 10am - 12noon or 1-3pm A friendly and supportive Apple-Mac: Mon, Tues, Wed group for new and old writers. All at Kincumber Neighbourhood Encouragement and critique Centre of work. Workshops and 02 4307 9421 competitions 10am 3rd Sun Conference rm. Gosford Hotel 4363 2627 TERRIGAL WAMBERAL

Community Centre, Maidens Brush Rd Wyoming at 10am 4325 0666

COMMUNITY CENTRES

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Hearing loss management Support and educational group COMMUNITY CENTRES 7 groups across the coast provide the local community Providing practical experience with a meeting place and hub for and confidence groups, services and information. Learn the benefits to hearing aids 4321 0275

GOSFORD 50+ LEISURE AND LEARNING CENTRE

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Handicraft, Painting, Knitting, Tai Chi, Scrabble, Darts, Table Tennis, CENTRAL COAST PROSTATE Indoor Bowls, Patchwork, Yoga, CANCER SUPPORT GROUP Fitness, Gentle Swimming, Line (GOSFORD) Dancing, Cards, Variety Social, Meet last Friday Month Womens Group, Zumba, Crochet, Terrigal Uniting Church Computers 380 Terrigal Dre, Terrigal 4304 7065 9.30am to 12 noon 4367 9600

GOSFORD-NARARA NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE

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School Holiday activities, CENTRAL COAST PROSTATE playgroup, multicultural CANCER SUPPORT GROUP programs, community activities (WYONG) Rooms for Hire Meet last Monday Month 4329 4477 Toukley RSL Club admin@gnnc.com.au Homes Ave Toukley 10.00am to 12 noon GREEN POINT COMMUNITY 4356 9300

CENTRE

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BIG FUTURES IN SCHOOL MENTOR PROGRAM

OOSH cave, exersize classes, school holiday programs, DYING WITH DIGNITY NSW, playgroup, arts & craft, room hire, CENTRAL COAST and much more. Working to give those 4367 7591 suffering unrelievedly from terminal or incurable illness KARIONG NEIGHBOURHOOD the legal right to request & CENTRE receive medical help to die Early childhood clinic, free family Quarterly Meetings law advice, active playgroup, 4369 8053 computer classes, OOSH services, fitness classes, arts & crafts, GAMBLING SOLUTIONS over 50’s friendship group, youth RSL SUB-BRANCH Counsellors provide free, At Breakers Country Club pension group, social groups and many confidential, professional service more services. and welfare officers available to to gamblers, family and friends. 4340 1724 assist with DVA compensation Woy Woy, Kincumber, Gosford, wwww.knc.net.au claims and benefits The Entrance. Wed & Fri 10am – Midday 4344 7992 Meetings 2nd Sat 10am KINCUMBER 43842661 GROW Support Groups NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE rsl@breakerscc.com.au Small friendly groups formed to • Exercise classes learn how to overcome anxiety, • Yoga for adults and children U3A CENTRAL COAST depression and loneliness and to • Community eco garden Mature age people are invited • Room hire improve mental health and wellto participate in a wide range of • Health support groups being. Anonymous, free and open courses to broaden the mind and • Counselling to all. Weekly at Woy Woy, Bateau make new friends Bay and Wyong • After school activities 0408 704 701 1800 558 268 4363 1044

Become a volunteer mentor 2 hrs/ week, Free Training, No qualifications needed Be a young persons champion 0413 624 529

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COMMUNITY GROUPS ABC - “The Friends” Support group for Public Broadcaster. Aims. safeguard ABC’s independence, funding, & standards. Meetings through the year + social afternoons Well-known guest speakers 4341 5170 www.fabcnsw.org.au

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CENTRAL COAST COMMUNITY LEGAL CENTRE Not for profit org in Wyong providing free legal advice. Intake times for legal advice Monday to Friday 9am-5pm 4353 4988 centralcoast@clc.net.au

CENTRAL COAST SOCIAL GROUP Social contact, entertainment events, new friendships, for 30’s-60’s - Live music, house parties, dinners, BBQs, picnics, trips away etc. Monthly Meet & Chat 0422 243 101 cco30s@live.com.au

CENTRAL COAST 50+ SINGLES SOCIAL GROUP Invites Ladies & Gents for dinner, dancing - BBQs & socialising each w/e. Friendly group monthly programme all areas 0412 200 571 0437 699 366 50pssg@gmail.com

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for Teens & Adults No Contracts, Cheap Rates Wamberal - Mon 630pm Kincumber - Thurs 715pm 0417 697 096 www.centralcoastgojukaikarate.com.au

GOSFORD GUMNUTS PLAYGROUP Parents and children meet socially. Make friends, learn more about parenting. 0 to 5 yrs Wed - Fri 10am-12noon Gosford Uniting Church Hall 129 Donnison St Gosford 4325 3695 gumnutsguc@gmail.com

VOLUNTEERING CENTRAL COAST Refer potential volunteers to community organisations. Provide support to volunteers and community organisations. Provide training to volunteers and managers of volunteers Information sessions “Bridge to Volunteering” held regularly. 4329 7122 recruit@volcc.org.au

WILDLIFE ARC We rescue and care for injured and orphan native animals. 24hr/day, 7days/ week. Come join us. Gen Meeting 3rd Sun Wyoming

www.kincumber.nsw.au

A meeting place and referral hub for education, health, well-being and cultural programs through consultative services and community programs. Mon-Fri 9am-4pm 6 Sydney Ave Umina 4342 7515 admin@mingaletta.com.au

TERRIGAL FIFTY PLUS LEISURE AND LEARNING CENTRE Activities include fitness, yoga, bridge, mahjong, zumba gold, line dancing, tai chi, painting, craft and computer classes. 43845152

WYOMING COMMUNITY CENTRE Yoga & Zumba classes, Art and Craft classes, Playgroup & Vacation Care, Support groups, Book Club, Community Garden, Rooms for Hire, Work Development Orders, Centrelink Volunteer hours 4323 7483 reception@wyomingcc.org.au

HEALTH GROUPS ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

www.grow.org.au

MEALS ON WHEELS Delicious meals delivered free Join us for a midday meal Help with shopping and cooking classes 4363 7111

HISTORY GROUPS CENTRAL COAST FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY INC. Help and advice with your family history research. Tue to Fri, 930am to 2pm Lions Community Hall, 8 Russell Drysdale St, E. Gosford. 4324 5164 www.centralcoastfhs.org.au

BRISBANE WATER HISTORICAL SOCIETY • Coach tours • School educational tours • Annual Street Stalls • Participation in History Heritage Week Celebration Margaret Pearce 4325 2270

FELLOWSHIP OF FIRST FLEETERS CENTRAL COAST For anyone interested in early history or early family histories. Don’t need to be a First Fleeter. Point Clare Community Hall 2nd Sat 10:30am 4311 6254

MUSIC

meet every Wed 12.30pm Someone cares - Anglican Church BRISBANE WATER BRASS 3 Mann St Gosford Brass Band entertainment for the 4323 3890

community playing all types of popular music Rehearsal every Tues. 7.30pm-10pm 0419 274 012

SOUNDWAVES Men’s acapella 4 part harmony chorus - all ages 7pm Mon Central Coast Leagues Club Kieran - 0407 267 675 khutton58@gmail.com jbthomson51@gmail.com

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

4362 3139 iiw.au.gosfordnorth@gmail.com

INNER WHEEL CLUB OF TERRIGAL

& women. Ourimbah RSL Club 10:30am 2nd Fri - Feb to Nov 4322 1505

NATIONAL PARKS

Share friendship, social activities ASSOCIATION as well as fundraising for local, CENTRAL COAST national and international Twice weekly bush walks, varying projects. 3rd Mon, 12noon distances and grades of difficulty. Terrigal 50+ leisure centre, Explore, enjoy scenery, fauna, Duffy Rd Terrigal floral, history. Keep fit and make 4369 0302 - 4384 1490 friends. terigalinnerwheel@gmail.com 4389 4423 or 4332 7378

SYDNEY WELSH CHOIR

LIONS CLUB OF WOY WOY

Cultural organisation performing at various venues to promote the Welsh culture with singing, Also performing for charity fund raising. 4369 3378

1st and 3rd Mon. Woy Woy Leagues Club Make new friends and have fun while serving your community. 0478 959 895

SPIRITUALITY IN THE PUB

Ecumenical & Interfaith Speakers Forum & Q&A with focus on developing understanding and encouraging dialogue about spirituality through people sharing their life journeys. Rotary Club of 1st Tues March to October Gosford North TEMPO TERRIFIC 2nd Tues November Active community minded club. 7.30 to 9pm COMMUNITY SHOWBAND Many projects focussed on Grange Hotel Wyoming Active showband available to 4328 2596 - 0498 588 261 play at your community function. assisting youth. Support our great Wide ranging repertuore. Always projects, get involved with our fun club. Graham Black seeking new members, come and 0410 509 071 have fun with music. Follow us on grahamblack@iprimus.com.au Facebook - Every Mon 5 - 7pm BPW CENTRAL COAST Kincumber Uniting Church Empowering women of all ages ROTARY CLUB OF 4365 4414 in the areas of work, education, www.tempoterrific.com KARIONG/SOMERSBY well-being and friendship. tempoterrific@live.com International service club Monthly dinner meetings and improves lives of communities speaker. in Australia and overseas. Fun- Community transport available to filled activities, fellowship and and from centre friendship breakfasts. Phillip Chris Levis 0438 989 199 CENTRAL COAST GREENS House, 21 Old Mount Penang Rd bpwcentralcoast@hotmail.com The Central Coast Greens (opp Shell) - Fri 7:15am www.bpw.com.au/central-coast For a fairer, more transparent and 4340 4529 accountable government based kersuebay@philliphouse.com.au on democratic principles COUNTRY WOMEN’S Local, state-wide, national ASSOCIATION (CWA) and international issues and Quilting, patchwork, spinning, campaigns - Council and knitting, crochet and more BIZ PLUS NETWORKING parliamentary representation 9am-2pm Developing a new economy ASSOCIATION Every Fri, Opposite Protecting our environment Attention business owners - if Terrigal Bowling Club Peaceful conflict resolution you keen to grow your business 4385 9503 or 4384 3696 Community participation and in the process build We meet monthly every 3rd worthwhile relationships, attend a GOSFORD RSL Thu - Details and info: Biz Networking breakfast. SUB-BRANCH centralcoast.nsw.greens.org.au Every Thur 7:15am - 9am WOMEN’S AUXILIARY centralcoastgreens@gmail.com Erina Leagues Club Raise money for the welfare of Geoff Neilson veterans and their families. RSL network@bizplus.com.au AUSTRALIAN LABOR PARTY Club West Gosford OURIMBAH/ NARARA 4th Mon 2pm CCLC BRIDGE CLUB BRANCH 4323 7336 Duplicate Bridge-partner not Discussion/action community required for most sessions. issues - 3 levels of Government CENTRAL COAST WOMEN’S Central Coast Leagues Club Niagara Park Primary School HEALTH CENTRE 12.30pm Mon, Tue, Thur, Fri. 7.30pm 1st Mon each month Counseling, therapeutic and Sat 1.30pm Wed 7.15pm Mon 0410 309 494 social groups, workshops, 4325 9854 kyle.macgregor@hotmail.com domestic violence and abuse www.cclcbridgeclub.asn.au issues. All services provided by cclcbridgeclub@westnet.com.au POLITICS IN THE PUB women for women CENTRAL COAST 4324 2533 CENTRAL COAST CAKE Discussion of important political, www.cccwhc.com.au DECORATORS GUILD social, economic, education, Sugarcraft demonstrations and philosophy issues in a non SOROPTIMIST conversation and lunch partisan manner - The Grange INTERNATIONAL Visitors welcome Hotel 4th Thur besides Dec BRISBANE WATER 4th Sat - 10am 50+ leisure and Making a difference in the lives Learning Centre Gosford of women and girls through 4382 6236 lsroe@bigpond.com.au Awareness, Advocacy and Develop confidence by improving Action by supporting local and your speaking skills. Meetings are national projects CENTRAL COAST LAPIDARY entertaining and educational. CLUB MINERALS & GEMS 2nd Thur 7 pm Breakers Country Club, Dover Rd, Wamberal Learn silverwork, Cabochons, BRISBANE WATERS sibrisbanewater@@siswp.org Faceting, Enamelling, Stone BREAKFAST www.siswp.org Field-trips & fossicking TOASTMASTERS CLUB Weekly Workshops 8:30am-10:30am WOWGIRLS WAVE Tues and Thurs 8.30am 2nd and Last Sat - The Hive and OF WISDOM INC 2.30pm. Thurs 6-10pm Library, Erina Shopping Centre WOWGIRLS Wave of Wisdom 10 Ourimbah Creek Rd Ourimbah 0459 240 183 connects women and local 4362 2246 businesses around a common BLUE GUM FLAT theme of well-being. to share CENTRAL COAST TOASTMASTERS wisdom and explore life’s SOARING CLUB INC Mthly meetings 1st and potential. Gliding Club, Learn to fl y, 3rd Mon 7.15-9.30pm Regular Powwows, WOW Wisdom Instruction FREE to members Ourimbah RSL gatherings, WOW days and WOW 14 and up for Training 4362 7227 courses check our website for Flying at Bloodtree Rd Mangrove activities. Mountain Thur, Sat, Sun ( weather www.wowgirls.com.au permitting) info@wowgirls.com.au 0412 164 082 INNER WHEEL CLUB OF 0414 635 047

WOMEN’S GROUPS

POLITICAL PARTY

SPECIAL INTEREST

PUBLIC SPEAKING

SERVICE GROUPS GOSFORD NORTH INC

www.ccsoaring.com.au

Community minded women who enjoy fundraising for local, national and international projects Regular social outings. 2nd Wed 7pm 21 Old Penang Rd Kariong

CENTRAL COAST PENSION & WELFARE OFFICER NETWORK Group of Volunteers, trained by DVA, to look after servicemen

If you would like your Community Organisation listed here, call us on 4325 7369 or see www.centralcoastnewspapers.com Entries in the Not For Profit Community Organisations Directory are free. However, we require each organisation to subscribe to each newspaper to ensure that someone from that organisation keeps their entry up to date. Australia Post is about to increase their postage rates by over 42% and we can no longer continue to absorb these increases. Subscription rates have therefore needed to be increased from $50 to $75 for 25 editions.

Central Coast Opera to present Carmen entral Coast Opera, a subsidiary of Central Coast Conservatorium, will present their 2017 opera production, Carmen by Georges Bizet, in May.

With colourful, eye-catching costumes, flamenco and paso doble dance scenes and the smouldering tension between the ill-fated Carmen, her lover Don Josè and the charismatic and glamorous toreador, Escamillo, this promises to be a vivacious and vivid production.

Powerful voices sing famous operatic arias; Spanish rhythms fill the air; soldiers patrol while factory girls flirt; glittering bullfighters parade and gypsies flamenco across the stage as the captivating Carmen walks fearlessly towards a fate written in the cards. Siena Palmer from Umina Beach has been cast as Mercédès, friend of Carmen, who along with Frasquita, provides some of the ensemble highlights in this production. Carmen will be performed at Laycock Street Community

On the day, Kibble Park will come alive with free rides and activities, with Gosford Cubbyhouse helping out with games for the kids. The Mad Hatter will begin his tea party with cupcakes from Kiss My Cupcake and lolly bags for the first 300 kids. The Mad Hatter will appear on

the main stage along with the Queen of Hearts, Tweedle Dum, Tweedle Dee and the White Rabbit. The Tea Party is aimed at children aged 2-8 years. Media release, Mar 17, 2017 Edwina Nikora, GBID

For events in post code areas 2250, 2260 and 2251

If you’ve got something happening in Gosford LGA area over the next few weeks, let us know about it and we’ll list it here for you, for free. Contact details are on page 2. See the Peninsula News for events in post code areas 2256 & 2257 and the Wyong Regional Chronicle for events in post code areas 2258, 2259, 2261, 2262 & 2263

Alive Plant Based Festival, Kibble Park, Gosford, from 10:00am The Rewbies, Avoca Beach Bowling Club, 7:30pm March in March by March Australia Central Coast, Carawah Reserve, Gosford, 10:30am Ben Woodham, Kincumber Hotel, 7:00pm Narara Eco Village Open Day, from 1:30pm

Sunday, Mar 26 Avoca Beachside Markets, Heazlett Park Foreshore, Avoca Beach 9:00am to 2:00pm 5 lands Experience featuring the 5 Lands Band and Chad Wilkins, The Rhythm Hut, Faunce St, Gosford, from 5:00pm Quilting and sewing classes with Alan R Tremain, Wyoming Community Centre, 10:00am to 4:00pm Zonta Central Coast Birthing Kits Day, join in packing over 4000 kits, North Avoca Surf Club, from 10:00am Baby and Kids Market, Scholastic Sports Stadium

Tuesday, Mar 28 Tai Chi at Point Clare, Fairhaven community building, 209

Brisbane Water Dve, 5:00pm to 6:00pm

Thursday, Mar 30 Pluim Gosford Guineas Race Day, The Entertainment Grounds, Racecourse Rd, Gosford

Friday, Apr 7 A weekend immersion into the practices of Deep Nature Connection with Claire Dunn, author of My Year Without Matches, Somersby until Apr 9 Ben Woodham, Terrigal Hotel, 7:30pm

Friday, Mar 31 Saturday, Apr 8 Bingo at Point Clare, Fairhaven Community Building, 209 Brisbane Water Dvem OPoint Clare, 1:30pm to 3:30pm weekly and Zumba from 5:00pm to 6:00pm weekly Legal Aid veterans’ advice service, 100 Donnison St, Gosford, 9:00am to 5:00pm, appointments essential

Saturday, Apr 1 First Saturday Blues with Blues Angels and featuring Mrk n The Blues Trie, Hotel Gosford, 7:00pm Ben Woodham, Foghorn Brewhouse, Erina, 8:30pm

Tuesday, Apr 4 Spirituality in the Pub meeting, guest speakers Ruth Myors and Judith Roberts. The Grange Hotel, Wyoming from 7:30pm to 9pm

Coastal a Cappella are celebrating 25 years

Media release, Mar 3, 2017 Lisa Kelly, Central Coast Conservatorium of Music

The Gosford Diary Saturday, Mar 25

MARCH 23, 2017

Theatre from Saturday, May 13 to Saturday, May 20. The cast for the production has been announced as: Carmen Angelique Tot; Don Josè - Dimitri Pronin; Micaela - Vivienne Calwell; Escamillo - Alex Sefton; Fresquita - Hannah Greenshields; Mercedes - Siena Palmer; Dancairo - Simon Castle; Remendado - Jayden Castle; Morales - Adam Jansen; Army Officer - Lillas Pastia; and Inn Keeper - Douglas Kent.

Mad Hatter to return to Kibble Park ibble Park, Gosford, will welcome Alice in Wonderland’s Mad Hatter and other beloved characters when the Gosford Business Improvement District (GBID) host the Mad Hatter Tea Party on April 8.

OUT&ABOUT PAGE 27

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, Kibble Park, Gosford Central Coast Community Markets Charity Car Boot Sale, Fairhaven, 209 Brisbane Water Dve, Point Clare, 9:00am to 1:00pm

ocal singing group, Coastal a Cappella, are celebrating their 25year anniversary in 2017.

The 40-strong chorus of women from all over the Coast got together to celebrate 25 years of fun, friendship and harmony at Erina Fair on International Women’s Day. The group has been able to celebrate a variety of recent

successes, which include performances at the national Sweet Adeline’s competition, Royal Easter Show, St Mary’s Cathedral for Lights of Sydney Spectacular, as well as a live TV performance on channel 7’s Morning Show. The group has been featured on the ABC Radio, Singout Sydney, and were selected from the championship finalists to appear in the Sydney Eisteddfod Choral

Grand Prix. Tickets are now on sale for their annual show, Coastal a Cappella Live at the Laycock St Theatre on April 29 where they will be joined by special guest, country singing star Gina Jeffreys and featuring the Lee Academy dancers. Media release Mar 20, 2017 Meredith Kelly, Coastal a Capella

Fifteen years of hair growth donated to charity fter staying away from the hair salon for almost 15 years, Ms Ferran Thornycroft, of Point Clare, has decided to ceremoniously cut it all off for her 18th birthday this April and donate her hair to Variety.

Growing her hair since the age of four, Ms Thornycroft’s hair is now long enough to sit on. “I just wanted really long hair, and more recently I’ve decided to cut it. “I thought if I was going to cut it, it would be good for it to go to a good cause,” Ms Thornycroft said.

Ms Thornycroft’s donated hair will benefit children with hair loss due to cancer or alopecia. She is also raising money to help Variety’s Wigs for Kids program, and is halfway to her goal of $1,800. Ms Thornycroft said she is still deciding whether she will cut her hair to shoulder length, or go all the way and get a pixie cut. Interview, Mar 16, 2017 Ferran Thornycroft, Point Clare Email, Mar 15, 2017 Fiona Thornycroft, Point Clare Jasmine Gearie, journalist

Wednesday, Apr 12 Central Coast Branch of Friends of the ABC presents Jeff Waters, Central Caost Leagues Club, Gosford, 5:30pm for 6:00pm start, bookings essential

Issue 109

Issue 110

Issue 111

January 31, 2017

February 14, 2017

February 28, 2017

Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

The need for break-walls at The Entrance Channel highlighted esidents from across the Central Coast came together on Australia Day to stage the second annual The Entrance Channel dig out.

Saturday, Apr 22 Open Day, Henry Kendall Cottage and Historical Museum, guest speaker Michael Wilding, Author and Emeritus Professor of English and Australian Literature at the University of Sydney, from 10:30am

The aim of the dig out is to draw attention to the myriad of issues facing the channel including flooding, water quality and water recreation. Mr Peter White, a representative from The Tuggerah Lakes Flood Mitigation Action Group, said the dig out was also staged to highlight the need for break-walls at The Entrance Channel. According to Mr White, the 2016 dig out attracted 120 volunteer “diggers” who were all behind the break-wall idea. Mr White also said that 2016’s dig out attracted attention from the former Wyong Council, members of the Save Tuggerah Lakes Party and Members of Parliament from across the Wyong Local Government Area. “The aim of our 2017 dig out was to escalate the event to a State Government level where the need for break-walls needs to be recognised and hopefully funded,” Mr White said. Mr White said the installation of break-walls along the channel would improve water flow in and out of the lake, improve the water quality and alleviate flooding from low lying areas around

Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

Conﬁdential airport Berejiklian refuses to feasibility study recommended sale conﬁrm September council election of the land N

ew South Wales Premier, Ms Gladys Berejiklian, during her visit to the region for a Community Cabinet meeting, was not prepared to conﬁrm that the Central Coast would have a local election in September.

Mr Laurie Eyes attended the Wyong chamber to access the airport feasibility study

the lake. Poor tidal and weather conditions did not deter the 40 strong group from the dig out, which commenced at 10am. Mr White offered his thanks to the group who braved the conditions, and the members of the public who turned out to see what was happening. “We had a few people just turn up to see what our group was doing, and

once we told them, they grabbed a shovel and got to digging,” Mr White said. According to Mr White, there is a large part of the community that wants to see break-walls included on Central Coast Council’s and the State Government’s radar. “Government focus has been on The Entrance Beach Groyne, which will ultimately have

no positive impact on the channel, which is frustrating, because there are so many positives for The Entrance and Tuggerah Lakes if a breakwall was to be built,” Mr White continued. Mr White said other than general water quality improvements, a break wall could revitalise The Entrance as a boating and ﬁshing hub, which would stimulate the tourist

economy of the region, by effectively making the channel a “boat haven” if water ﬂow was stabilised by break-walls. “The channel has the potential to attract larger pleasure and recreational boats and to be a boat shelter during storms and rough seas. “This could bring so much to The Entrance and attract much more boating and water

recreation to Tuggerah Lakes. Additionally, Mr White said more stable water ﬂow would see residents regularly effected by ﬂooding no longer suffering a poorer quality of life for their lake views.

Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

Continued P3 Photo: Noel Fisher

Premier Gladys Berejiklian shakes hands with the Central Coast Photo: Noel Fisher

Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

Continued P4

Tip trucks (right) depositing coal on one of the outdoor mounds at Vales Point power station dumped by very large, pollution,” the power station. When community minimise members investigated, said local resident Mr The Vales Point power and often uncovered, coal trucks were Mike Campbell, who station was sold by the dump trucks at Vales uncovered and no water witnessed the pollution. NSW Government in Point. was sprayed to control “There are mountains “It’s shocking to 2015 to two investors in dust. of coal as high as threesee Delta Electricity a $1 million deal. thousands The Vales Point dumping It is expected to close storey buildings within a very short distance power station reported of tonnes of coal by 2022. emitting 34 million outdoors in hot windy Dr Whelan said the to the residential areas exposing EPA had responded of Mannering Point and kilograms of 30 conditions, substances in the 2014- our community to toxic to the Environmental Blue Haven,” Dr Whelan 15 National Pollutant pollution,” Mr Campbell Justice Australia said. Inventory, including said. “We were stunned by pollution report by 66,000kg of coarse The pollution was stating Vales Point was what we saw at Vales particle pollution. reported to the Chief using water trucks to Point. of NSW, control the dust but, Elsewhere in NSW, Regulator “It looks like they coal is transported into Mr Mark Gifford, and he said, on two out of have the same sort of power station furnaces Regional EPA Director, the three occasions he conveyor system as by conveyor belts that Mr Adam Gilligan, on visited the site, no water other power stations, the evening of Thursday, was being sprayed to but it is not being used. are entirely enclosed. contain the dust. “We expect a February 16. “The EPA said the The closest EPA air major polluter like “Tens of thousands of conveyors will be in use Delta Electricity to pollution monitoring is tonnes of coal are being by April, but that is still do all they can to more than 25km from

Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

PAGE 28 MARCH 23, 2017 CLASSIFIEDS ADULT SERVICES

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Classified advertising is the cheapest form of newspaper advertising. This newspaper is published on line on the night before publication date, and is read that way by hundreds of people. All advertisements, including these classified advertising pages, appear in full on-line as an additional benefit for free. See www.CentralCoastNewspapers.com or www. CentralCoastNews.net Central Coast Newspapers’ advertising rates are relatively much lower than in other newspapers and at the same time much larger than in other newspapers, with the minimum size being 50mm X 42mm. Approximately 16,000 copies of each newspaper are printed and distributed every fortnight. Coast Community News also has a website especially designed for use on the latest mobile phones – www.CoastCommunityNews.com.au Classified advertisements in Coast Community News will also appear in a directory on that mobile website for free, with up to two live links to phones, websites, or email addresses for each advertisement. The mobile website has over 40,000 regular users and 10,000 unique readers every month.

Personal and Not For Profit Organisations As Central Coast Newspapers are community newspapers, the cost of advertising not for profit organisations’ events is subsidised. This makes them the same rate as non-business advertisements. A mono 5cm advertisement only costs $40. Each additional cm costs $8 as does colour, and/or a photograph or a logo. Private advertisements need to be paid for at the time of booking.

Business rates The minimum size of 5cm X a single column only costs $50 + GST in mono and an extra $8 + GST for colour, a logo or a photograph, every two weeks. Most businesses choose to advertise on an ongoing basis and discounts apply for multiple bookings, if they are paid for in full, in advance. Having an advertisement run for 3 months only costs $275 + GST, for 6 months it is $495 + GST, and for 12 months advertising, the total cost is only $940 + GST – Approximately $18 per week. Artwork is free and advertisers are encouraged to change their advertisements frequently.

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Whilst unsure if they were on the way to market, Council wants to help them cry wee wee wee all the way home and is appealing for the owner to get in touch. Proof of ownership is essential. If the owner does not come forward, Council is also accepting tenders from 5pm, March 15, from anyone wishing to make some new curly tailed friends. Council has already thought of name suggestions for potential new owners and recommends:

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entral Coast Council, known for its suspected porkies but not its bacon, has eight pigs in custody at their Livestock Pound, after the little piggies were found in Ourimbah.

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Gosford Scottish Country Dancers hold a intermediate class on Wednesdays from 7 to 10 pm at Wyoming It’s an excellent form of exercise which brings men, women and young people together socially, learning new and old dances in a very friendly relaxed atmosphere No experience or partner necessary All ages welcome Cost $7.00 per week Contact Janice on

4388 2253

Media release, Mar 7, 2017 Central Coast Council Media

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Foot Golf is the lovechild of golf and football, mixing rules and customs from both sports. Foot Golf combines the fast pace and physicality of soccer with the accuracy and finesse of golf. Players take turns to kick their own ball across nine holes with

the player making the fewest shots at specified Foot Golf holes the winner. According to the Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CEO, Mr Paul Alexander, the arrival of Foot Golf will be celebrated with a special open day on March 26. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Club will start with Foot Golf being available seven days a week,â&#x20AC;? Mr Alexander said. Mr Alexander said the introduction of Foot Golf was all about delivering a new and unique service to the Central Coast whilst attracting more patrons and younger athletes to the Club.

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Phone: 4325 7369 120c Erina Street, Gosford To order online

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;90 per cent of people that play Football are under the age of 40, which is where golf membership is in decline due to time restraints. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Foot Golf is a quick game to play and can be played by the whole family, and can be used for birthday parties, corporate events and so on. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Club saw an opportunity to bring Foot Golf to the Central Coast as no other Golf Course on the Central Coast is offering this service at the moment. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Football is extremely popular on the Central Coast and hopefully Foot Golf will prove to be an exciting addition to the Central Coast,â&#x20AC;? Mr Alexander said. Mr Alexander also ensured that there would be minimal disruption to traditional golf, as Foot Golf would only be played on specially constructed holes on the rough in the fairway, and would not disrupt the golf green (other than the occasional bad kick). â&#x20AC;&#x153;Foot Golf can be played at the same time as Golf as it is at other courses, however, initially the 3pm time slot means that it will not cross over with Golf too much,â&#x20AC;? Mr Alexander concluded. Interview, Mar 20, 2017 Paul Alexander, Mangrove Mountain Memorial Club Dilon Luke, Journalist

G H DQ P R &

Photo: David Lamont

he tapes go up on the 2017 speedway season on Saturday, March 25, at Allen Park Raceway, Somersby, home of the Central Coast Junior Motorcycle Club.

The club has a proud history of nurturing young speedway riders who are now performing at the highest level on the world stage, riders like 2012 World GP Champion, Chris Holder, and current World 250cc Champion, Matt Gilmore. The annual Ray and Joan Sanson Spirit of Speedway Trophy is designed to encourage and support young up and coming riders from NSW, and hopefully find the next Australian world champion.

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Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

Saturdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s meeting will feature a first class field of young 125cc junior riders including 2016 winner, Maurice Brown from Cowra, 2nd place getter, Jack Miles from Kurri Kurri, and Lex Tracey from Sydney, great, great nephew of six times Australian Champion, the late Billy Sanders. Local legend, Harrison Ryan from Warnervale, is recovering from a recent hospital procedure and will sadly miss out on this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s meeting. Jake Treloar, 12-year-old son of Darrin Treloar, nine times Australian Sidecar Champion and 2016 FIM Speedway Sidecar World Cup winner, will also be in action. He will also be teaming up with Jack Miles to showcase the truly spectacular junior sidecar

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speedway. The special Spirit of Speedway Award will be given to the most promising up and coming rider who demonstrates skills, both on and off the track, with qualities like attitude, tenacity and fair play. Club spokesperson, Mr Terry Starbuck, said he was very excited about the calibre of this meeting. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are hoping to attract a bumper crowd to kick-start the new season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Officials will be available throughout the morning to explain how local kids get involved in this fun and exciting sport from only 9 years of age,â&#x20AC;? he added. Media release, Mar 17, 2017 Terry Starbuck, Central Coast Junior Mortorcycle Club Inc.

The Shame File

Central Coast Newspapers has a very liberal credit policy for advertisers and realises that from time to time, people, businesses and organisations get into financial difficulty and may need assistance and time to get things back on track. However, some people, businesses and organisations take advantage of this generosity they use advertising but simply donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t pay their account after several months and need to be taken to court to do so. From time to time, as necessary, we will name these people, businesses or organisations as a warning to our readers so that they will be wary when dealing with them.

â&#x20AC;˘ Renotek, Tascott

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PAGE 29 MARCH 23, 2017

Lexy Tracey (blue helmet) and Coastal young gun Harrison Ryan

Name:

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SPORT

Junior speedway action resumes

Foot Golf to be launched at Mangrove Mountain Memorial Club angrove Mountain Memorial Club and Golf Course is bringing a new sport to the region, being the first venue on the Coast to offer Foot Golf.

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Sutherland, Gosford

North

â&#x20AC;˘ Michelle Umback - 2 â&#x20AC;˘ Ezy Homes - Freddies Funky, Terrigal Warehouse, Gosford â&#x20AC;˘ Tony Fitzpatrick Central Plaza trading as Futurtek â&#x20AC;˘ Thomas James Roofing Clinton, Trading â&#x20AC;˘ Shelley Walker as TMA Products & Previously trading as AthroBalm & Effective Headmasters Hair Business Solutions of Design, Park Plaza Ettalong Gosford â&#x20AC;˘ Ashleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Family â&#x20AC;˘ Jessica Davis - A1 Restaurant, Gosford Cleaning Services, George Nouri Erina â&#x20AC;˘ Decorative Fabrics & â&#x20AC;˘ Inspire P/L trading Furnishings - Steve as CUP Computers McGinty formerly of Gosford â&#x20AC;˘ Dean Lampard â&#x20AC;˘ Modern Asian Trading as Lampard Cuisine, Victoria Street Painting East Gosford â&#x20AC;˘ Coast and Country â&#x20AC;˘ AAA Coastal Painting Removalists - Gosford Service, Greg

PAGE 30 MARCH 23, 2017

SPORT

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Last minute reprieve for Gosford Kariong Open Grade team

Motor group celebrates 50 years in business entral Coast a u t o m o t i v e dealership, Brian Hilton Motor Group, has achieved a half century in business, and is set to celebrate the golden jubilee in fine style.

Thanks largely to the perseverance of their skipper, Max Russell, Gosford will be playing senior footy in 2017 Photo: Andrew Stark

he Gosford Kariong Rugby League Club has been buoyed by last-minute news that their Open Grade team has been accepted into the 2017 season’s third tier competition.

The Storm’s senior squad has been in training for months now, despite not knowing whether or not it would be accommodated within the draw. Belated notification arrived just two and a half weeks prior to the kick off, following an eleventh-hour opening provided by the withdrawal of last season’s premiers, Berkeley Vale, from the 2017 competition. Tireless work from Storm

captain, Max Russell, has managed to help negotiate a path through into this year’s draw for a Gosford Kariong side, hell bent on righting the wrongs of winter 2016. A ramshackle arrangement was forged between Gosford and Terrigal in the 2016 season which saw the hybrid outfit finish a miserable year both winless and at the tail of the field. In the stormy months that followed the end of the 2016 season, the Central Coast Rugby League slammed the door on Gosford’s involvement; informing the Storm that there would be no place at the Open Grade table for the Narara-based club in 2017. “This ruthless approach taken by the game’s governing body provided a continuation of the

Tide Chart

FORT DENISON LAT 33° 51’ S - LONG 151° 14’ E - TIME ZONE - 1000 Times and Heights(m) of high and low waters

Time - Height(m) Add one hour to the times below when Daylight Saving is in force

0522 1.49 1208 0.58 THU 1813 1.27 2353 0.69

0617 1.56 1256 0.50 1900 1.36

0131 0.50 0216 0.41 0748 1.72 0832 1.78 SUN 1415 0.34 MON 1454 0.28 2021 1.57 2102 1.67

0350 0.28 0440 0.27 1003 1.78 1052 1.73 WED 1615 0.26 THU 1657 0.30 2228 1.82 2315 1.84

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he Football Federation of Australia (FFA) has chosen Central Coast Stadium as the venue to trial a new Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, during a female exhibition match between the Central Coast Mariners Academy and North Shore Mariners,

on Saturday, March 25. The live trial of the VAR system will commence from 2:30pm where the female teams will play two 40 minute halves. Gates open at 2:15pm and will allow football fans to enjoy a high quality game of female football, while also gaining a first-hand insight into the operation of the VAR system.

0302 0.33 0916 1.80 1533 0.25 2144 1.76 0533 0.29 1143 1.63 1742 0.37

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Media release, Mar 21, 2017 Andrew Stark, Gosford-Kariong Storm Rugby League FC

APPROX. TIME LAG AFTER FORT DENISON Ettalong 40 min, Rip Bridge 2hrs - Wisemans Ferry 2 hrs 30 min, Koolewong 2 hrs 10 min

In view of the variations caused by local conditions and meteorological effects, these times are approximate and must be considered as a guide only. They are not to be relied on for critical depth calculations for safe navigation. Actual times of High and Low Water may occur before or after the times indicated

Foundation’s annual World’s Greatest Shave fundraiser, with Brian Hilton’s Drive for a Cure The day consists of a mystery tour taking participants on a scenic drive around the Central Coast with clues along the way, leading them to a barbeque lunch at the North Gosford dealership. The team hopes to raise $4,000 on the day. “Giving back to the local community is something we take great pride in at Brian Hilton Motor Group. “We understand the importance of supporting those who support us, and this is just one initiative along with local sports sponsorships and our involvement with Central Coast schools that we will undertake this year,” Mr Hilton added. “It’s been a great 50 years for Brian Hilton Motor Group, and we look forward to being the big local for many more years to come.” Media release, Mar 14, 2017 Tom Worsley, Thomson PR

Video Assistant Referee system to be trialled at Gosford

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league’s post-2011 policy, which has seen a blanket aversion shown toward any of the smaller clubs who dare to aspire to rise through the senior ranks”, Club spokesperson, Andrew Stark, said. The late withdrawal of the Panthers from this season’s draw however has earned Gosford a reprieve; the Storm men being allowed back into the competition to effectively even up the number of teams and therefore avoid the need for a weekly bye. Gosford Kariong’s opening game of the season will kick off against the Toukley Hawks at Berkeley Vale Oval on Saturday, April 2, and the Storm are determined to prove that their worth stretches beyond just making up the numbers. Recent wet weather forced the Storm to cancel their scheduled opening round of junior trial games, which were due to have been played against the Berowra Wallabies. An Open Grade trial was also scheduled to have been played against The Entrance, however this was also washed out as grounds right across the Coast fell victim to large pools of surface water and the dreaded ‘Oval Closed’ sign.

From humble beginnings in 1967, Brian Hilton Pty Ltd was registered when Brian Hilton set up his dealership in Wyoming. Half a century later, it’s still a family business with Brian’s son Josh now in the driving seat. Today, Brian Hilton Motor Group is the Coast’s biggest new and used car dealership, with a portfolio of five brands across six sites, a motor sports operation at Lisarow and an off road accessories store. According to dealer principal, Mr Josh Hilton, the milestone is a testament to the business acumen of his father who had an unwavering commitment to the region’s motoring needs. “Brian Hilton Motor Group’s mission has always been to be a

business admired and respected by its own staff, our community and our peers. “To be celebrating 50 years of business is a clear demonstration that we are achieving our goals,” Mr Hilton said. “It’s incredible to see how much we’ve grown, even just in the past 10 years, with the inclusion of new brands and a state of the art body and paint facility. “I don’t think my father would have ever imagined the footprint the organisation has today when he first set up in the 60s. “We continue to look at new ways to meet the motoring needs of the Central Coast, and I’m excited to say during our golden jubilee we will be announcing a range of new services.” The group has also grown beyond the Central Coast, with the acquisition of Sydney Motor Group in Alexandria and a stake in Mid Coast Automotive Group in Forster and Taree. The group is also giving back to the community next week to help raise money for the Leukaemia

WAR MEMORABILIA WANTED

The game will be followed by the Central Coast Mariners who take on Adelaide United at 5:35pm. Entry to the female exhibition match is included in the match day ticket and the Mariners membership. Website, Mar 17, 2017 Tyson Scott, Central Coast Mariners

Several cricket grand finals cancelled ricketers and sports fans across the Coast have had a disappointing end to the season when several grand finals had to be cancelled due to wet weather over the weekend of March 1819.

Closed pitches and fields included Sohier Park 1 and 2, EDSACC North, Halekulani Oval, Kanwal Oval and Mascord Oval. Council notified the Central Coast Cricket Association of the closures prior to game days, but persistent heavy rains left the Association with no choice but to declare the finals cancelled as ground conditions remain unusable. The issue is further complicated by the approaching winter sport season that will see fields and other play spaces and facilities

handed over to other sporting codes and associations for the beginning of their season. As such, the Association has ruled that teams that were leading at each of these grounds in relevant grand finals are now the 2016/17 Premiers in their respective grades. Games effected were: 1st Grade Narara vs Kincumber; 3rd Grade Narara vs Northern Power; 4th Grade Northern Power vs Terrigal; 7th Grade Wyong vs Warnervale; 8th Grade Southern Spirit vs Kincumber Green; 10th Grade Lisarow vs The Entrance; U16C Narara vs Terrigal Maroon; U14A Kincumber vs Narara; U14C Kincumber Red vs Lisarow White; and U12A Northern Power vs Terrigal. Website, Mar 17, 2017 Central Coast Cricket Association Facebook page Dilon Luke, Journalist

Union to launch new season he first round of the 2017 Central Coast Ruby Union season is scheduled for April 1 and all 10 clubs are gearing up for another great season.

The season will commence with the Central Coast Rugby

Union Season Launch Lucheon on Friday, March 31, at the Wallarah Bay Recreation Club, the day before the season kicks into gear. Email Mar 20, 2017 Larry Thomson, Central Coast Ruby Union

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SPORT

PAGE 31 MARCH 23, 2017

Mariners in crucial match at Gosford

Central Coast Mariners’ family photo Photo: Jason Pratt

he Central Coast Mariners will need to give everything they’ve got in their match against Adelaide United on Saturday, March 25, at Central Coast Stadium, in order to keep their finals hopes alive. The Mariners will be looking to make it three wins from three against Adelaide this season, and will be looking to secure crucial points to make the top six for the season. The Mariners and Adelaide are currently ranked ninth and tenth respectively on the A-League ladder, and both teams need to pull out all the stops in a battle to make the finals. With just two points separating the Mariners and Adelaide, the team knows a win here is critical and Mariners attacker, Connor Pain, said the team’s aim is the top six. “It was a strange week last week, as we’re used to training day in day out in preparation for a

game on the weekend, but it was something a bit different,” Pain said. “We’ve had some time off over the weekend, but throughout the week, we have been working just as hard as in every other week in the lead up to this Saturday’s game. “If anything, we have been training harder to compensate for the loss of conditioning you get from a match on the weekend, so today we had a really hard hit out and a few really hard gym sessions during the week, so we are definitely prepared for the weekend,” Pain said. A resurgent Adelaide United have recorded two positive results in both the Hyundai A-League and AFC Champions League, but Pain is confident that the Mariners have what it takes to claim all three points at Central Coast Stadium. “We are feeling really good and really positive going into this one,” Pain said. “We just need to keep fighting and doing our best. “We need some results to go

our way, but if we keep going the way we’re going, the results will change, so we just need to keep playing well and get the three points on the weekend. “People are playing for contracts, we’ve got a chance of making the finals, and we need to make sure we put ourselves in the best position possible, because as a group, we still believe that we can make it and until that’s mathematically impossible we will keep fighting until the end. “We have had a couple of games in the last couple of weeks that we would have really liked to have gotten points from to put us in a better position. “Our push for the six is still on, and every game from here to the end is a Grand Final for us,” Pain said. Game day festivities kick off at the stadium from 2pm with the Pre-Game Function. The Function will be hosted by Gosford Bowling Club at the eastern side of the stadium. Before entering the stadium proper, sports fans will be able to taste the Coast’s beer and grab a

meal at the pre-game barbeque. Mariners’ players not playing in the match will also be available for a meet and greet with fans at the Pre-Game Function from 4:50pm. During this time a jumping castle will also be available for the youngest Mariners’ fans. From 2:30pm, the Women’s Exhibition Match and VAR System Testing will kick off. Further details on this appear in a separate article. A-League kicks off from 5:30pm and is sure to be a nail-biter. The FIFA half time challenge is also back and will pit one Mariners’ fan against an Adelaide United fan in a broadcasted winner takes all game of FIFA. After the full time whistle blows, Mariners’ fans are invited to join in the family photo with the full Mariners squad in the north western corner of the stadium. Website, Mar 22, 2017 Central Coast Mariners homepage

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